EXCLUSIVE BY JAMES WILKINSON IN FIJI

Fiji’s Prime Minister, Commodore Josaia Voreque ‘Frank’ Bainimarama, says tourism is a major component of the country’s economic survival going forward, with international visitors now helping account for 34% of the country’s GDP.

In a rare appearance on television in the Australian media, Bainimarama said his government was committed the tourism industry and the door is firmly open to those wanting to invest in the South Pacific nation.

“My government recognises the importance of the tourism industry for the sustained economic growth of Fiji and its ability to create a sustained livelihood,” he said.

Bainimarama made the comments when he officially launched Wyndham’s FJD$49 million stage three expansion of the company’s WorldMark Resort on Denarau Island last Friday (Nov 4).

“This will provide another boost to the (tourism) industry as a whole,” Bainimarama said.

Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Managing Director Barry Robinson said developing stage three of the property was significant for both the WorldMark Resort and the company as a whole.

To view an exclusive video report featuring Bainimarama and Robinson, click on the image below.