The tourism industry has proved again why it is the backbone of the Fijian economy after it recorded visitor earnings of $340.9 million for the first quarter of this year.
This was revealed by the Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Faiyaz Koya during the opening of the 2016 Industry Day at the Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa at Natadola this morning.
Koya reveals that this is a 9.7% increase compared to the same period last year.
He stresses that from January to August, figures indicate a 5% increase in visitor numbers that is approximately 511,760 recorded visitors.
He says the increasing trend has not been dampened by the Tropical Cyclone Winston.
The Minister adds that they have noted an 11.7% increase in numbers from India and 63% increase in visitors from the rest of Asia.
Koya says that we should not reduce efforts in our traditional markets of Australia and New Zealand.
The Minister highlights that the investment in the tourism industry is continuously encouraged.
He says the industry looks forward to some large scale developments such as the Momi Bay Resort, Pullman Nadi Bay Resort and Spa, Vunabaka Resort and Kokomo Island Resort to begin operations in the New Year.
Koya says Fiji will host more international and regional meetings in the coming years such as the Fiji International and Super Rugby matches.
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