FIJI, 27 MARCH 2026 – The Fiji Tourism Exchange (FTE) 2026 officially opened today at the Sheraton
Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, setting the stage for Fiji’s largest annual tourism trade event, and bringing
together more than 500 global industry partners for two days of business, connection and
opportunity.
Hosted by Tourism Fiji, the Exchange is a key platform for building international partnerships, driving
commercial outcomes, and showcasing the depth and diversity of Fiji’s tourism industry.
This year’s event welcomed 122 international buyers and media representatives from 16 countries,
alongside 82 exhibiting companies. With more than 3,300 pre-scheduled appointments, FTE 2026
creates a dynamic marketplace for meaningful engagement between local operators and global travel
partners.
Opening the event, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame
Gavoka, emphasised the broader role of tourism in shaping Fiji’s future. “Tourism in Fiji is about more
than visitor numbers, it is about people, communities, and shared opportunity. The Fijian Tourism
Exchange continues to demonstrate the strength of our industry, bringing together global buyers,
sellers and media to experience the diversity and authenticity of our tourism offering. As we pursue
sustainable and inclusive growth, our focus remains on empowering local communities, expanding
connectivity, and ensuring tourism benefits are felt across all regions of Fiji. Through initiatives that
support regional development and small enterprises, we are building a resilient tourism sector that
delivers meaningful experiences for visitors while creating lasting value for our people.”
Tourism Fiji Chief Executive Officer, Dr Paresh Pant, highlighted the importance of FTE as the industry’s
primary commercial platform. “Today, we are reminded that Fiji’s tourism industry has transitioned
from post-pandemic recovery to a phase of recalibration. FTE remains our premier platform to
strengthen partnerships, create real commercial opportunities, and align our efforts for disciplined
growth. As we look ahead, our focus is on delivering value, deepening trade distribution, and ensuring
tourism benefits are shared more inclusively across our communities. By bringing together operators,
trade partners, airlines and stakeholders, FTE allows us to build relationships, close deals, and
collectively position Fiji for continued success in an increasingly competitive global landscape.”
Also taking the stage at the opening was Tourism Action Group (TAG) Chair, Mr. Damend Gounder,
who reaffirmed the industry’s collective focus on preparedness and collaboration in navigating
evolving global conditions. “TAG brings together government and industry partners to ensure we
remain aligned and responsive, particularly as the ongoing Middle East conflict contributes to global
uncertainty,” said Mr. Gounder. “Our focus is on maintaining visitor confidence, supporting demand,
and planning ahead so Fiji remains competitive. By working collectively, we can safeguard tourism’s
contribution to our economy and ensure the benefits continue to reach our communities. Fiji remains
well-positioned, connected, and ready to welcome visitors.”
FTE 2026 highlights the strength of collaboration across Fiji’s tourism industry and its global partners,
reinforcing a shared commitment to responsible growth and long-term resilience. As the sector
continues to navigate evolving global conditions, Tourism Fiji uses the Exchange as a strategic platform
to align priorities, share market insights, and work closely with industry partners to remain agile and
prepared. By strengthening relationships and fostering collective action, FTE plays an important role
in shaping the next chapter of Fiji’s tourism story.