Fiji Tourism wants $3.8m fast

The Fiji Islands Hotel and Tourism Association has called on the Interim Government to ensure a request for $3.8million by the Tourism Action Group is made available as soon as possible.

Association President, Dixon Seeto said it was vital the money was handed over to the industry so TAG could begin phase two of the industry’s recovery campaign.

Under phase one, the Fiji Visitors Bureau provided TAG with $1.2m to launch promotional campaigns in New Zealand and Australia, with phase two including Australia and New Zealand but placing greater emphasis on the United Kingdom, the European, American and Asian markets.

Mr Seeto said even though two thirds of visitor arrivals were recorded from Australia and New Zealand, it was necessary to launch similar campaigns in other markets, adding, such campaigns were necessary because some resorts and hotels in Fiji specialised in those far markets.

“During phase two, we will continue with marketing campaigns in Australia and New Zealand because we need to continue with the awareness programs.”

Mr Seeto said the industry was in desperate need of help because it had struggled since the introduction and debate over the bed tax in November 2005.

He said confusion caused by the bed tax, wholesalers in major markets refused to promote and sell Fiji.

He said when the industry finally overcame the challenges brought about by the proposed legislation it was again crippled by the military takeover.

Mr Seeto said the Association welcomed the appointment of Bernadette Rounds-Ganilau as Interim Tourism Minister.

Report by The Mole