Fiji hosts Pacific tourism exchange

Fiji is set to host a significant gathering of regional tourism stakeholders next year with the combined Fiji Tourism Exchange (FTE) and South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE). Over 500 participants, including tourism leaders, government representatives, development partners, and industry experts, are expected to convene for the back-to-back events.

Tourism Fiji Chief Executive Dr. Paresh Pant highlighted that the dual exchanges will serve as a crucial platform for discussing current trends, identifying opportunities, and prioritizing strategies for the future of Pacific tourism. He emphasized the competitive global market necessitates strong regional cooperation to draw international visitors. Pant believes that holding the events concurrently will enhance regional partnerships, attract more international buyers, and elevate the Pacific's profile in significant markets.

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And it also gives time for our buyers, those who are in the market trying to learn about the destinations. It allows them to plan. And by announcing these dates now, it gives them that opportunity to prepare themselves, particularly for the long-haul markets, because they’ll not only be doing Fiji and the Pacific, but they’ll also be moving on to Australia and New Zealand.

Dr. Pant also noted the benefit for buyers, allowing them ample time to learn about various destinations and plan their itineraries. "By announcing these dates now, it gives them that opportunity to prepare themselves, particularly for the long-haul markets, because they’ll not only be doing Fiji and the Pacific, but they’ll also be moving on to Australia and New Zealand," he stated.

Christopher Cocker, Chief Executive of the Pacific Tourism Organisation, acknowledged Fiji's central role as a hub for tourism, trade, and collaboration in the region. He praised the Fijian government's consistent support for regional cooperation, aligning with the Deputy Prime Minister's vision for greater collaboration between FTE and SPTE. The SPTE is scheduled for May 5th and 6th, followed by the FTE on May 7th and 8th.

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But I think the Fiji Government has always supported regional cooperation. This current Government has always supported SBTE as well as regional collaboration. One of the visions of the Deputy Prime Minister is to see greater collaboration between FTE and SBTE.