Fiji has reported a remarkable increase in tourist arrivals from Vancouver, Canada, over the past year.

This surge follows the introduction of direct flights by Fiji Airways between Fiji and Vancouver, resulting in a significant rise in passenger numbers from 10,000annually to 21,000.

The revelation was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, during his address to members of the Fiji Canada Association at the Fijian Centre in Surrey, Canada, earlier today.

Accompanied by a delegation comprising of Government representatives, private sector leaders, and business leaders, Hon. Kamikamica emphasized the importance of diversifying Fiji's economy beyond its reliance on tourism alone.

Expressing gratitude for the warm reception by the Association members, Hon. Kamikamica acknowledged the significant role played by the Fiji Canada Association, which has been a cornerstone of Fijian diaspora unity for the past 56 years, making it the largest Fijian association outside of Fiji.

Highlighting key initiatives aimed at economic diversification, Hon. Kamikamica revealed Google's decision to invest in Fiji, signifying a new era of technological advancement for the nation.

“The tech giant's planned Data Center will create numerous job opportunities in the country, positioning Fiji as an ICT hub in the Pacific region,” mentioned Hon. Kamikamica.

Moreover, Fiji's agricultural sector is undergoing expansion, with Hon. Kamikamica commending the quality of Fijian agricultural products and underscoring efforts to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“We even have two innovative women entrepreneurs in this delegation. Rohini Hamid of Sea& Soil Pte Limited and Ana Malumuvatu from Kavalicious (Fiji) Pte Limited, who have demonstrated exceptional innovation and leadership in their respective fields.”

The Fiji North-America Business Mission, a collaborative effort between Investment Fiji, the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and the Fiji Trade Commission North America, aims to strengthen bilateral trade relations and explore new investment opportunities.

The delegation is set to depart for San Francisco tomorrow, continuing its mission to foster economic growth and prosperity for Fiji.

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