$1m expected from yacht Initiative this year

Government is expecting an injection of approximately $1 million from the Blue Lane initiative by the end of this year.

Among tourism initiatives created by Government, safe “Blue Lanes” are set up for yachts and pleasure craft.

Two weeks ago Fiji welcomed its first yachts from New Zealand.

According to Minister for Commerce, Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Koya one yacht alone brought in $40,000 in two days.

In addition, a foreign exchange outlet re-opened on Denarau.

Mr Koya said to date 26 yachts have been approved to enter Fiji.

However he added that visitor arrivals were expected to decline by 75 per cent this year, whilst earnings, as per the July 2020 forecast, is expected to reduce by 70 per cent.

He called the tourism industry to play their part as Government had taken the necessary steps to revive the industry.

“You need to meet us halfway. We absolutely must ensure that the benefits that come with this budget are realized,” Mr Koya said.

“The extraordinary tax and duty concessions need to be passed down to our tourists, whilst raising the bar in terms of the service we offer.”

INOKE RABONU