Strengthening existing partnerships and creating new ones is an essential goal for the Fijian Tourism Expo 2017.

This was the message by the President Jioji Konrote at the official opening of the 2017 Fijian Tourism Expo at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, Denarau last night.

Mr Konrote said in view of this goal, the theme had been retained, considered prudent to  “Team Fiji” for the Expo.

He said our 7s team was a perfect example of great teamwork.

“They continue to be a source of inspiration for us all — to work together, to achieve our goals as individuals, organisations and as a nation. 

“It is a brand which we hope to utilise to further promote Fiji’s Tourism Industry.”

He added despite the devastating effects of Tropical Cyclone Winston, the tourism industry was stable. 

“Last year, Fiji recorded the highest number of visitor arrivals of 792,320, which was a 5 per cent increase compared to 2015 also increasing the earnings by 2.7 percent,” President Konrote said.

He also highlighted the Fiji Airways’ plans to upgrade its fleet with five Boeing 737s Max 8 aircraft.

“The Fijian Government wants the Tourism Industry to continue to improve its income generating capacity,” President Konrote said.

“In this regard, the Fijian Government has begun work on the Tourism Development Plan or ‘Fijian Tourism 2021’ to set the platform that should elevate Tourism to a $2.2 billion industry by the end of 2021.

“Tourism 2021 is a long-term strategy to build the resilience and competitiveness of the Fijian tourism industry and grow its economic contribution.

“It focuses on improving the industry’s performance and competitiveness by pursuing new opportunities for growth and addressing supply-side factors.”

Exciting event

For the past four years, the Fijian Tourism Expo has established and created long-term relations within the industry for both exhibitors and international buyers.

“We expect this year’s Fijian Tourism Expo to be an even more exciting, but more importantly, successful event for Fiji’s Tourism industry.”

Mr Konrote thanked all the supporters and all the menbers of Fijian Tourism Industry   that are using the platform to showcase the diverse and exquisite products and services Fiji has to offer.

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