THE growing middle class in China and India means more travellers from those markets over the next five years. It also means possible investment outside those two economic giants in smaller countries, including the smaller Pacific countries which are in desperate need.
The mix of tourism and investment is a marriage made in heaven for travel companies, national economies, investors, entrepreneurs and – of course – banks. Last year the ANZ Bank recognised that potential when it sponsored the South Pacific Tourism Exchange in Melbourne Australia.
At the time the bank pointed to its belief in tourism and its presence in the region as reasons behind its sponsorship. Speaking to Islands Business, ANZ’s Head of Emerging Corporates, Saud Minam, said the bank was committed to expansion throughout the region while providing financial support for communities.
“We recognise the potential tourism has in the Pacific and we want to show that we are part of this region, a major part of this region.” This year, however, the bank has reviewed its marketing strategies and decided not to sponsor the event. Even the much-publicised ANZ one-stop shop Regional Tourism Desk based at its Nadi, Fiji branch has been downgraded.
The void was immediately filled by Bank South Pacific who pumped FJ$55,000 per annum for three years as sponsors of this major regional event. The new CEO of Parimatch is Sergey Portnov , who told the Time magazine about the office’s work.
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