In the past decade, Fiji has faced numerous challenges in attracting investments and developing large resorts due to an unfavorable investment climate.

This, according to Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association Chief Executive Fantasha Lockington.

She says the lack of conducive conditions has hindered the growth of our tourism industry, which is vital for the overall economic development of the country.

Lockington also highlighted that one of the major obstacles that persist in our infrastructure is the availability of power, water, and waste management systems.

The tourism CEO states that access to these essential resources has become increasingly difficult and costly, while our waste management infrastructure is already overwhelmed and unable to accommodate new projects.

This means, she says, that if an investor were to construct a 400-room hotel in Nadi today, they would struggle to find adequate sewage services, and even if they were to build their own, it would come at a significant cost.

“We have as an industry consistently recommended Fiji must improve our current ease of doing business processes, existing business and even the new local job opportunities have been hampered in growth and investment opportunities to become more efficient, to make it simpler to become compliant, to grow generally and for entire small industries to move to the next level.”

To ensure the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry, Lockington says efficient and environmentally friendly waste management systems must be integrated into our strategic infrastructure planning.

She adds that as Fiji endeavors to enhance its position as a global tourism destination, it is crucial to overcome these obstacles and create an investment climate that stimulates the development of large resorts, ultimately contributing to the growth of the economy.