Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association, 26 June 2025 – I’m often asked what has kept an association like ours relevant for six decades. It’s a question that comes not just from local institutions, but from regional partners as well—many of whom recognize the power of private sector associations to serve as connectors, advocates, and enablers for businesses.
While the answer may seem straightforward, it rests on a foundation of deep listening, genuine empathy, and the ability to engage meaningfully across multiple levels— whether with those sharing their challenges and ambitions, or with policymakers and regulators who can help shape solutions.
We take all perspectives into account, we help steer the changes that drive evolution, and we lead with the conviction and passion needed to stay the course.
Tourism is constantly evolving, and we’ve kept pace by helping our members navigate risks, seize opportunities, and stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s advocating for smarter policies, investing in skills development, or creating spaces for the industry to connect and collaborate—operating in a developing island state means standing still is never an option. And tourism certainly hasn’t, despite having nearly everything but the kitchen sink thrown at it.
Reflecting on Fiji’s remarkable journey as a destination, there is much for us all to be proud of. The tides of change have swept in time and again—often with unforgiving force—testing our resolve and reshaping us in the process. And yet, here we are: stronger, more agile, and more sought-after than ever. Not perfect, perhaps, but always committed, always striving.
Last week, we celebrated the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association’s (FHTA) 60th anniversary, and it gave us a chance to take a moment to truly appreciate how far we’ve come. Using this moment to reconnect with why we do what we do despite often enormous challenges.
The small, but significant anniversary celebration held at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort was full of energy and joy. There was laughter, heartfelt stories, and a real sense of community in the air – considering the industry never really likes to pause, let alone spend time reflecting on the hard-earned journey to celebrate successes or milestones.
FHTA members, industry partners, and long-time supporters came together, not just to reflect on the past but to look ahead to where we’re going. The friendships, reminiscing the stalwarts and icons that have paved the way, the shared vision, the passion—that’s what makes this industry special.
Fiji’s tourism journey has never been without its storms. We’ve weathered powerful cyclones, financial downturns, global disruptions, and most notably, the unprecedented challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. The global tourism landscape is ever-shifting—traveller trends evolve, expectations rise, and new destinations emerge, all competing for the world’s attention.
Yet, through it all, Fiji continues to shine as a premier destination in our region—a fact often echoed at tourism forums around the globe.
So, what’s our secret? Why do travellers keep choosing Fiji? Certainly, our postcard perfect beaches and turquoise waters play their part.
But the true magic lies in our people. In our ancient and beautifully blended cultures. In the warmth of our hospitality. In our fierce, unwavering spirit that rises to meet every challenge. I’ve witnessed it time and time again—from small, family-run resorts and tour operators to world-class hotels, our members step up.
They adapt. They innovate. And they find ways to keep Fiji front and centre on the world’s travel wish lists.
This spirit of working together—that’s the heartbeat of FHTA. From our early days to where we are now, we’ve grown into a trusted, united voice for Fiji’s tourism operators.
Our mission has always been clear: cut through the red tape, build stronger partnerships with government, and pave the way for sustainable growth that reflects the inclusivity that ensures everyone ultimately benefits.
At the AGM held just before the celebrations, we welcomed new leadership stepping up to take their place on the Bboard, with five new directors adding even more diversity and expertise to our team. These aren’t just impressive names—they’re people who truly understand this industry from the inside out, from the perspective of both local businesses and international brands. I know they will continue to champion the values that have carried us for decades: inclusivity, resilience, and progress.
It’s important to recognise that strong partnerships have remained the backbone of our success—not only with our diverse and ever-expanding membership, but through the meaningful relationships we’ve nurtured with government ministries, regulators, community leaders, and our international allies.
Over the past year, we’ve made a concerted effort to deepen these connections— because tourism does not, and cannot, operate in isolation. When our industry thrives, so too does the wider ecosystem around us: the farmers who stock our kitchens, the transport operators who welcome and guide our visitors, the artisans who fill our shops with handcrafted wonders, and the communities that share their stories, their resources, and their unique joy with the world.
This is the ripple effect of tourism—a force that lifts livelihoods, strengthens communities, and ultimately fuels our entire economy.
Tourism is a powerful engine for any small island developing state—but it is also deeply vulnerable, often rocked by branding challenges, natural disasters, and the full spectrum of crises that disrupt travel and safety. We’ve seen how swiftly momentum can shift.
Yet, it’s our unwavering ability to bounce back—time and again, transforming adversity into opportunity—that truly sets us apart.
We’ve taken immense pride in standing shoulder to shoulder with our members through every wave of change—whether navigating shifting regulations, strengthening safety measures, embracing digital transformation, or embedding sustainability into the fabric of daily operations.
The Association has consistently used its voice to challenge outdated legislation and policies that undermine productivity or increase operational costs. In close collaboration with employer groups, we continue to advocate through comprehensive position papers, policy submissions, and thoughtful commentary on key issues such as taxation, education, employment, and regulatory frameworks—including immigration.
When addressing inequities, the Association leads with integrity—first raising concerns directly with the relevant stakeholders or government agencies, and only turning to public discourse when all other avenues have been pursued.
When it comes to sustainability, let’s be clear—it’s not optional, it’s essential. Our environment isn’t just our calling card—it’s woven into our identity. With climate change on our doorstep, our future depends on how we manage waste, safeguard our oceans and waterways, and bring our communities along on this collective journey.
That’s why the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association has placed sustainability at the heart of everything we do. We’re actively supporting our members to protect coral reefs, reduce waste, and operate more sustainably. At the same time, we’re championing smarter, more integrated policies that embed sustainability into the fabric of Fiji’s tourism sector—not as a checklist, but as a way of life.
Our anniversary wasn’t simply a moment of reflection—it was an opportunity to look ahead and ask: what’s next? What kind of tourism industry do we want in 10, 20, or even another 60 years?
We believe in a future that’s inclusive and sustainable—one that uplifts local communities, creates meaningful employment, and protects the very essence of Fiji: our people, our culture, and our natural beauty.
As we continue to advocate, innovate, and evolve, one thing remains constant: our unwavering commitment to keeping Fiji at the forefront as one of the most sought-after destinations in the region. We achieve this by consistently transforming adversity into opportunity—driven by the resilience we’ve gained, guided by our values and vision, and anchored in a deep-rooted dedication to building a tourism industry that never stops improving.
The next chapter of Fiji’s tourism story is already unfolding—capturing the world’s attention—as we proudly continue our role in supporting and shaping its future.
So – here’s to the next 60 years.
Fantasha Lockington – CEO, FHTA (Published in the Fiji Times on 26 June 2025)
Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association
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