Fiji Strengthens Regional Leadership in Sustainable Tourism at Pacific Tourism Ministers Meeting

SUVA, 4 November 2025 – The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, today informed Parliament of the key outcomes of the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) Council of Tourism Ministers Meeting, held recently in Vava’u, Tonga.

The meeting brought together Pacific tourism leaders, including Her Royal Highness Princess Salote Mafileʻo Pilolevu Tuita, to advance a shared vision of inclusive and sustainable tourism development across the Blue Pacific.

Hon. Gavoka said the meeting reaffirmed Fiji’s leadership under the Coalition Government in promoting tourism as both an economic pillar and a platform for regional solidarity. Fiji also formally handed over its Chairmanship of the Council to Tonga, marking the completion of its term of service.

SPTO Strategic Plan 2025–2029

The Council endorsed the new SPTO Strategic Plan 2025–2029, which outlines six key priorities: sustainable destination management, marketing support, research and insights, partner coordination, capacity building, and tourism–aviation integration. Hon. Gavoka noted that the plan aligns with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and Fiji’s national development goals.

“The Coalition Government believes that protecting our reefs, forests, and culture is protecting our children’s future,” said Hon. Gavoka. “This plan is not symbolic. It is a political commitment from all Pacific nations to act with purpose.”

Tourism and Aviation Connectivity

A central theme of the meeting was the link between tourism and aviation. The Pacific Tourism and Aviation Strategy 2026–2030, supported by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, was endorsed to improve regional connectivity, explore sustainable aviation fuels, and enhance intra-Pacific routes.

Hon. Gavoka emphasized that the Coalition Government’s integrated ministry structure ensures policy coherence between tourism and aviation, driving investment and access across the Pacific.

Sustainability and Digital Transformation

Delegates welcomed new digital tools such as the SPTO Digital Measurement and Benchmarking Dashboard, funded by New Zealand, which will help members make data-driven decisions on visitor trends and sustainability.

Fiji also supported regional measures to reduce single-use plastics, protect marine ecosystems, and improve eco-certification standards. “Sustainability is not optional; it is essential,” Hon. Gavoka stated.

Governance and Institutional Reform

The Council agreed that SPTO will remain a standalone regional agency within the CROP system, ensuring autonomy and focus on tourism development. Ministers also endorsed reforms to strengthen transparency, accountability, and funding mechanisms.

Implications for Fiji

Hon. Gavoka said Fiji will align its national policies with the SPTO Strategic Plan and expand professional training through the Fiji National University, ServicePRO, and the Pacific Tourism Research Institute. He added that partnerships with countries such as Australia, New Zealand, China, and the EU will continue to support tourism investment and innovation.

He also highlighted Fiji’s role in hosting the 2024 South Pacific Tourism Exchange, which connected 61 international buyers and 79 Pacific sellers, signalling renewed investor confidence.

“The Coalition Government remains committed to regional unity and shared prosperity,” said Hon. Gavoka. “Tourism is not only about visitors. It is about opportunity, connection, and dignity for our people.”

Click the link to read more of the Ministers Parliamentary Response https://shorturl.at/ii5hh

ENDS

jacktoto jacktoto slot gacor