Fiji is increasingly gaining global recognition as one of the premier tropical filming destinations.
Film Fiji chief executive officer Jone Robertson said the 2023-2024 financial year saw the film industry contribute approximately $255million to the Fijian economy and 1200 locals employed, primarily driven by international productions.
Speaking at the Suva International Film Festival held at Damodar City last week, Mr Robertson said there was significant progress made to support both local filmmakers and attract international productions.
“The Suva International Film Festival is to showcase and provide a platform for our local filmmakers, to really show them at the cinemas to the public,” Mr Robertson said.
“Previously, filmmakers would struggle to have their films showcased on any platform whatsoever, and this really gives them an opportunity to see their films on the big screen and also for the public to also watch and enjoy the creation by these talented filmmakers.
“These filmmakers have often had to fund their projects out of their own pockets and face numerous challenges in terms of financing, securing appropriate settings, and obtaining permits.”
Mr Robertson said the sector’s growth had created jobs, with local service providers also benefitting, as foreign productions contribute to a wide range of industries, from hospitality to logistics.
Fiji has already attracted notable international projects, such as the long-running reality TV series Survivor, which has been filmed in Fiji for the past nine years, and Love Island, which was shot in Pacific Harbour.
Mr Robertson said these high-profile productions served as examples of Fiji’s growing reputation in the global film industry.
The hope is that these productions will return in future seasons, bringing continued investment and job opportunities to the country.
“So looking ahead, Film Fiji is hoping to change the direction to look for more investors to provide more opportunities to our local filmmakers and for investors to bring equipment into the country, have it kept in the country not only for international productions to use but also for local filmmakers to be able to produce films that are really at a high quality that we can showcase to further film festivals overseas, especially in international markets.”
