Fiji named “Destination of the Year” as Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka receives “Global Tourism Leadership Award”

𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐧, 𝐆𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 | 𝟓 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 – Fiji and the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, have received major international recognition at the 2026 Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) International Travel Awards held alongside ITB Berlin in Germany.

Fiji was named “Destination of the Year – Vibrant Island Experiences”, recognising the country’s exceptional tourism offering, vibrant culture, pristine natural environment, and commitment to sustainable tourism development.

Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka was also honoured with the “Tourism Minister of the Year – Oceania Region” award, recognising his leadership in guiding Fiji’s tourism sector, strengthening regional partnerships and consolidation of the country’s position as one of the Pacific’s premier visitor destinations.

PATWA, an affiliate member of UN Tourism, presents the annual awards to recognise governments, destinations, organisations, and individuals who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in advancing the global travel and tourism industry. Award recipients are selected by the PATWA International Travel Awards Council and Board.

The awards ceremony followed the 26th edition of the PATWA World Tourism Leaders Summit on “The Future of Tourism”, where Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka delivered a keynote address highlighting emerging global trends shaping the industry.

In his address, he emphasised the importance of embracing smart and seamless travel technologies, investing in people and skills, strengthening climate resilience, and delivering authentic experiences that connect visitors with culture and communities.

“The future of tourism will belong to those who combine innovation with authenticity, growth with responsibility, and technology with humanity,” he said.

Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka said the recognition reflects the collective efforts of Fiji’s tourism industry, including government agencies, tourism operators, communities, and industry partners who continue to deliver world-class experiences for visitors.

“These recognitions belong to the people of Fiji — the communities, tourism operators, and industry partners whose warmth, culture, and stewardship of our natural environment make Fiji such a special destination,” he said.

The evening also saw further recognition for Fiji’s aviation gateway and tourism infrastructure. Nadi International Airport received the “Best Airports for South Pacific Islands” award, while the Chief Executive Officer of Fiji Airports Limited, Mr. Mesake Nawari, was presented with the PATWA Gold Award for Excellence in Leadership for Airports – South Pacific Islands, acknowledging the critical role of aviation connectivity and airport leadership in supporting tourism growth.

Held annually alongside ITB Berlin, widely regarded as the world’s leading travel trade exhibition, the PATWA International Travel Awards bring together tourism ministers, global industry leaders, aviation partners, investors, and international media from more than 180 countries.

The recognition further reinforces Fiji’s standing as a world-class tourism destination and highlights the country’s continued commitment to sustainable, resilient, and people-centred tourism development.

ENDS