FHTA welcomes tax exemption

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Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association CEO Fantasha Lockington. Picture: BALJEET SINGH

THE Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association has welcomed Government’s confirmation that the 5 per cent Tourism Services Tax will apply only to bookings made from September 1, 2026, exempting existing bookings.

FHTA chief executive officer Fantasha Lockington said the decision addressed industry concerns and avoided visitors who had already paid for holidays facing unexpected charges.

“This is a genuinely welcome result, and the right one,” she said.

Ms Lockington said the decision also reduced uncertainty and the risk of booking cancellations for tourism operators.

FHTA is now awaiting updated Standard Interpretation Guidelines and further guidance from the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service on the tax’s application.