The aim of all stakeholders is the growth of the tourism industry in a sustainable manner.

Therefore, plans for the future can only be discussed in the true spirit of talanoa.

Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Koya stressed this at the opening of the Fijian Tourism Talanoa. The session was held at the HOTEC Tradeshow at the Denarau Convention Centre in Sheraton Fiji Resort.

It has been eight years since a talanoa session was held and Mr Koya said it was to create a platform for constructive dialogue between the Fijian Government and the industry players.

“Dialogue and discussions are key ingredients for success. Communication creates openness and transparency, which will enable better understanding of the policies and the needs of the industry,” Mr Koya said.

With the theme Progressive tourism through Sustainable Partnerships Mr Koya said forums as such provided the opportunity to listen to the policies and initiative and provide input.

Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association President Dixon Seeto said it was an opportunity for stakeholders to meet and understand the role each played in the growing industry.

“As with any business, we need a plan to chart our way forward in a sustainable and profitable way,” he said.

The talanoa focused on four areas including:

The Governments vision to achieving a $2.2billion industry by 2021 and the need for partnership in implementing the plan.

Making Fiji more competitive focusing on service levels, standards, Brand Fiji and marketing. The session also addressed the quality of the guest experience and how Fiji is perceived as a destination.

Making Tourism Sustainable focusing on forest and marine protection and sustainable tourism.

Creating Local linkages focusing on the reduction of imports and addressing leakages through increased linkages. Also to identify the opportunities to increase partnership across the sectors from agriculture, manufacturing and services to tourism.

Fijian Tourism Talanoa Logo:

Mr Koya explained the logo of the talanoa session which portrayed a turtle.

“This delicate creature, the oldest living creature on earth, represents so many things that we as participants today should remember,” he said.

“It is a symbol of sensitivity, of serenity, calmness, and embodies longevity.  The turtle depicts what we should aspire the talanoa session to be. We want to share views and ideas.”

Edited by Ranoba Baoa