Tourism Is Focusing On New Opportunities: Minister Koya
We’re seeing a rise in entrepreneurship and innovation says Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Faiyaz Koya. As the world celebrate World Tolurism Day, Mr Koya said it has been a challenging year for the global tourism industry.
“We’ve seen and experienced first-hand just how important travel and tourism is in driving socio- economic development,” Mr Koya said.
“As a Sma l l I s l a nd Developing State, Fiji and the Pacific, has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic relatively in terms of economic size and impacts. “This year’s theme, Year of Touri sm and Rural Development is therefore opportune.
“Rural communities are most affected by the pandemic. This is where we diversify our economic base by focusing on new opportunities. “Promoting equal opportunities, access to basic services and building resilient communities is a key national priority, enshrined in Fiji’s fiveYear and 20-Year National Development Plan. “Supporting grassroot communities through business training, mentoring, advi sory, incubation services and access to finance therefore remains paramount to the Fijian Government so no Fijian is left behind.” Mr Koya said the Fijian Government was committed and tourism remains a pillar
for economic diversification, and a key employment driver with multiplier effects on other sectors.
“With the closure of international borders and a majority of the hotels in urban ‘tourist hot-spots’ operating near bear minimum occupancy; we’ve seen a shift in business models,” he said
“We’re seeing the industry working towards strengthening the domestic tourism value chain.
“We’re seeing a rise in entrepreneurship and innovation. “We must do so by implementing across- the- board strategies to bridge the development gap between the rural and urban areas.
“As we mark the 40th anniversary of World Tourism Day, I ask that we pay special attention to harnessing the power of rural tourism and its contribution to building a sustainable and resilience economy.
“I wish everyone a happy World Tourism Day.”