Fiji explores markets like China to boost tourism

SUVA, Sept. 22 — Tourism Fiji said on Tuesday that it will continue to explore and develop the markets of China, India and Europe.

Fiji has the largest market share of Chinese visitors compared to the neighboring Pacific island countries. And Fiji tourism industry is also focusing on Australia and New Zealand markets as these are the bread and butter routes.

The Fiji tourism industry said while they explore and develop the markets of China, India and Europe, they were dependent on neighboring countries as they flocked Fiji shores.

Tourism is the only industry in the island nation that can turn the economy quickly in a short to medium term.

According to the Reserve Bank of Fiji statistics, Fiji earned 892 million Fiji dollars (455.8 million US dollars) in 2008, which is 24 percent of GDP.

In 2008, the next seven industries in Fiji earned 876 million Fiji dollars (448 million USD) which is less than tourism revenue.

Tourism Fiji is very dependent on airline connectivity.

There is a demand for more low cost carriers and cheaper flights to Fiji.

At the same time, the Fiji interim government recognizes that there is a need to balance tourism and aviation requirements.

Fiji Interim Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama made a commitment at the Budget Forum on Thursday that there would be more emphasis on tourism to ensure the industry was revived sooner as it raked in millions of dollars and was an employment opportunity for thousands of people. (PNA/Xinhua)

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