AGP Executive Report

Fiji Airways & Cure Kids Fiji: The airline’s partnership is helping doctors and specialists reach remote communities, supporting 819 people so far (including 716 pregnant mothers) through 41 flight sectors, with examples like Labasa-to-Nadi travel enabling free rheumatic heart screening for 103 children. Culture & tourism in Australia: VOU’s “Fijian Flying Circus” heads to Darwin, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney from Aug 2026 to Jan 2027, blending acrobatics, dance, drama and Fijian myths, with ticket proceeds supporting young dancers. Pacific security & sovereignty: After China’s missile test, Australia backed a US-led call for advance notice of missile launches, while PIF foreign ministers urged states to respect Pacific sovereignty and improve transparency. Community safety: The GCC says rising awareness of illicit drugs is strengthening village protection through solesolevaki-style collective action. On-the-ground city life: Suva is expanding CCTV coverage with 97 cameras installed and more planned around key festival areas. Travel logistics: Fiji taxi fares will drop back from Oct 1 after an interim increase ends Sept 30. Maritime environment support: Japan handed Fiji oil-response equipment and a vessel worth JPY100 million to boost readiness for major spills.

Pacific Travel Policy: Australia’s Vuvale Union is set to make it easier for Fijians to visit and stay longer, with plans to extend visitor timeframes, introduce up to five-year multiple-entry options for business travellers, and simplify repeat visa applications. Regional Security & Tourism Context: Australia and Fiji have moved closer on the Ocean of Peace alliance, with ratification steps in parliament aimed at a more stable Blue Pacific—good news for travellers who value certainty. Fiji Visitor Costs: Fiji’s taxi interim fare increase (linked to earlier fuel spikes) ends September 30, with fares reverting from October 1. On-the-ground Fiji: The Lau Group search-and-rescue for six health workers has prompted calls for stronger compensation as the Ministry considers support measures. Wildlife & Nature: A six-year Fiji study suggests bull sharks show a slight preference for spending time with genetic relatives at the same reef. Deals for Fiji-bound travellers: Webjet’s birthday sale includes $200 off Bali and Fiji holiday packages (min five nights), plus major flight discounts from Australia. Sports & Community: Rewa FC apologised to supporters after a 4-1 OFC Champions League loss; the McDonald’s Nadi U20s also kept their Skipper Cup title defence on track.

Pacific Security & Travel Links: Australia has moved to ratify the Ocean of Peace alliance with Fiji, with the pact signed in July and set to be brought to parliament—an “attack on one is an attack on the other” defence arrangement aimed at boosting stability in the Blue Pacific. Fares & Getting Around: Fiji’s interim taxi fare increase, introduced during the fuel-price surge, will end September 30, with authorised fares returning from October 1. Tourism Deals: Webjet has launched a 28th-birthday sale for flights and holidays, including Melbourne to Bali return from $420 and Fiji package savings with code BDAY200 (min five-night stay). Community & Wellbeing: The Ministry of Health is considering compensation for six medical professionals rescued after hours at sea in the Lau Group, as calls grow for stronger support for health workers in remote maritime travel. Family Pressure on Travel & Study: RBF data shows households squeezed by costs, while FNU warns up to 5,000 students have dropped out due to fees and student debt. Wildlife Science: A six-year Fiji study finds bull sharks show a slight preference for spending time with genetic relatives at the same reef. Sports & Local Events: Rewa FC apologised to supporters after a 4-1 OFC Champions League loss, while Nadi U20 kept their Skipper Cup title defence on track with a 29–11 win.

Fiji Pro: The Fiji Pro presented by Corona Cero returns to Cloudbreak reef from August 25 to September 4, with Nadi Chamber expecting a major tourism and business boost across hotels, transport and retail. OFC Champions League: Fiji’s Rewa FC kicks off Group B against Galaxy FC at 3pm today at Churchill Park, with the tournament split between Ba’s 4R Govind Park and Lautoka’s Churchill Park and free live streaming on DAZN. Vuvale visa push: Fiji leaders and traditional chief Ratu Tevita Mara are renewing calls for Australia to remove visa requirements for Fijians and bring forward domestic university fees, arguing “family” should mean equal access. US visa bond: The US makes its refundable US$20,000 visa bond permanent for B-1/B-2 travellers from Fiji and other Pacific Islands Forum nations, aimed at discouraging overstays. Taxi fares: Fiji’s interim taxi fare adjustment ends September 30, with FCCC saying operators must revert to authorised fares from October 1. Tourism stays local: Vanua Levu students can now train in agriculture, fisheries and forestry at the Labasa campus, reducing the need to travel to Viti Levu. Eco-resort spotlight: Mandala Resort by TradeWinds in Tonga offers a small, off-grid all-inclusive treehouse-and-bungalow experience—useful inspiration for Fiji travellers chasing quieter Pacific getaways.

US Visa Bond Made Permanent for PNG (and Fiji): The US has locked in a refundable US$20,000 visa bond for B-1/B-2 business and tourist applicants from Pacific Islands Forum countries including Fiji, aimed at discouraging overstays—officials say it’s not a travel ban, but travellers must meet visa rules and pay the bond. Vuvale Union Update for Australia: Australia’s expanded Vuvale Union is set to extend visitor stays (including business), introduce up to five-year multiple-entry options, and simplify applications for people who’ve held an Australian visa before—while Fiji leaders and chiefs continue pushing for visa-free entry and earlier domestic university fee access. Fiji Chief Calls for True Reciprocity: Lau’s Tui Nayau, Ratu Tevita Mara, welcomed the longer-stay and student fee plans but says Fijians still face a visa requirement while Australians can enter Fiji without one. Fiji Pro Boosts Tourism: The Fiji Pro returns to Cloudbreak from Aug 25–Sep 4, with the Nadi Chamber expecting stronger demand for hotels, tours and transport during the event. Cruise News: Mitsui Ocean Cruises will visit Australia for the first time in Feb 2027, with a “Circle Pacific” itinerary that includes Fiji. Community & Travel Support: Radisson Blu Resort Fiji donated 10 bunk beds to Ratu Kadavulevu School’s hostel, improving student accommodation and wellbeing. On-the-ground Travel Safety: Drivers are urged to be cautious after an accident on Kings Road opposite FNU Nasinu.

Tourism Spotlight: Mandala Resort by TradeWinds is turning heads with its ultra-small, off-grid Fetoko Island setup—10 guests a week, solar power, rainwater, fales including treehouse-style rooms and beachfront bungalows, plus farm-to-table meals. Community & Hospitality: Radisson Blu Resort Fiji donated 10 double bunk beds to Ratu Kadavulevu School’s hostel, backing better rest and student wellbeing. Fiji Pro Surfing: The Fiji Pro presented by Corona Cero returns to Cloudbreak reef from Aug 25–Sep 4, expected to lift tourism spend across hospitality, transport and retail. Travel Policy: Ratu Tevita Mara is again pushing for visa-free travel for Fijians to Australia and earlier access to domestic university fees under Vuvale. Sports Tourism: The OFC Men’s Champions League kicks off in Fiji this Sunday with free live streaming on DAZN, with Rewa FC among the Group B teams. Safety at Sea: Fiji Navy and NZ Air Force assets are supporting the search for six missing in Lau waters as rough seas hamper operations.

Fiji Pro Boost: The Fiji Pro presented by Corona Cero returns to Cloudbreak reef from Aug 25–Sept 4, expected to draw elite surfers, global media and thousands of visitors, with the Nadi Chamber of Commerce flagging strong spillover for hotels, transport and retail in the west. Visa Push: Tui Lau Ratu Tevita is urging Australia to drop visa requirements for Fijians and bring forward domestic university fee access beyond 2029, arguing Vuvale should mean equal treatment for families on both sides of the water. Maritime Fairness: The same leader calls for bigger government investment in Fiji’s maritime provinces, citing islands in Lau still lacking basic jetties and safe landing points. OFC Football in Fiji: The OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 kicks off in Lautoka and Ba this weekend, with Rewa starting Group B vs Galaxy FC (3pm) and matches streamed free on DAZN. Tourism Supply Chain: Viti Indigenous Tourism Alliance says resort partnerships often stop at leases, pushing for stronger links so indigenous farmers and cooperatives can supply produce and services into Fiji’s tourism sector. Safety & Access: A new Bua Suspension Bridge is set to make school and healthcare travel safer, while search efforts continue for six missing in Lau waters with a New Zealand Air Force maritime patrol aircraft deployed. Border Strengthening: Fiji Revenue and Customs Service reports record $3.51b revenue and highlights upgraded border tech and training to better detect illegal drugs and prohibited goods.

Tourism & Culture: Hollywood star Halle Berry says Fiji has the “happiest people on Earth” after a family stay at Kokomo Private Island, praising staff who helped with dive certification, seasickness, adventures and even a broken toe. Local Infrastructure: A new Bua Suspension Bridge is now open, promising safer school travel and better access to hospitals and services for communities. Maritime Safety: Search and rescue continues for six people missing in Lau waters after a fibreglass boat failed to reach Fulaga; NZ Air Force P-8A support is now involved and MSAF urges small-boat operators to heed strong wind and rough-sea warnings. Border & Trade: Fiji Revenue and Customs Service records a historic $3.51b annual revenue haul, while FRCS also steps up border tech and international cooperation to crack down on drugs and customs fraud. Travel Products: Tourism Fiji has launched four Chinese-language travel guides for families, couples, solo travellers and groups, aiming for more tailored island experiences. Sports Tourism: Cricket Fiji’s Super 8 returns to Suva (Aug 11–15) with prize money up 300% and live TV coverage.

Tourism Partnerships: Tourism Fiji has launched four Chinese-language travel guides for families, couples, solo travellers and groups, with tailored picks for accommodation and activities—aimed at helping visitors plan more than “where to go.” Resort Spotlight: Hollywood star Halle Berry praised Fiji’s hospitality after a 60th-birthday stay at Kokomo Private Island, calling locals “the happiest people on Earth” and highlighting staff support for diving, family care and a lovo celebration. Indigenous Supply Chain: The Viti Indigenous Tourism Alliance says many Indigenous resource owners miss out on tourism opportunities because partnerships stay stuck on leases, pushing for stronger links so communities can supply resorts with food and services. Infrastructure for Access: A new Bua Suspension Bridge is set to make school travel and healthcare access safer and easier for communities. Maritime Safety: Search efforts continue for six missing in Lau after a boat failed to reach Fulaga; authorities warn mariners to follow strong wind and rough-sea advisories and contact JRCC Fiji on 1539. Border Security: Fiji’s Revenue and Customs Service says it has strengthened border protection with new narcotics detection tools, chemical analyzers and international cooperation. Sports & Tourism: Cricket Fiji’s Super 8 returns to Suva (Aug 11–15) with prize money up 300% and live TV coverage, while the OFC Men’s Champions League kicks off in Lautoka and Ba this weekend.

Tourism & Hospitality: Hollywood star Halle Berry praised Fiji as home to “the happiest people on Earth” after a family stay at Kokomo Private Island, highlighting dive certification help, lovo celebrations and standout staff care. Travel Planning (China): Tourism Fiji launched four Chinese-language travel guides for families, couples, solo travellers and groups, with tailored accommodation and itinerary ideas for different travel styles. Island Access & Safety: A new Bua Suspension Bridge is set to improve safer travel for schoolchildren and easier access to healthcare and services. Maritime Alerts: Search efforts for six missing people in Lau waters continue after a boat failed to reach Fulaga; strong winds and rough seas are hampering operations, and MSAF urges small-boat operators to avoid areas under weather warnings. Sports Tourism: Cricket Fiji’s Super 8 returns to Suva (Aug 11–15) with a 300% prize-money boost and live TV coverage. Regional Connectivity: Australia says Pacific undersea cable work is complete, connecting more Pacific nations for the first time. Border & Trade Watch: Fiji Revenue and Customs Service recorded a record $3.51b net revenue for 2025–2026, while FRCS also highlighted stepped-up border tech and cooperation to detect illegal goods.

Maritime Safety: Search and rescue for six people missing in Lau waters continues after a white half-cabin fibreglass boat failed to reach Fulaga from Namuka, with strong winds and rough seas hampering efforts; the Maritime Safety Authority urges small-boat operators to obey weather warnings and avoid dangerous conditions, and calls for anyone with sightings to contact JRCC Fiji on 1539. Infrastructure & Access: A new $1M Bua Suspension Bridge has opened, promising safer travel for schoolchildren and easier access to hospitals and services for communities in the area. Border Security: Fiji Revenue and Customs Service says it has strengthened border protection with new narcotics detection equipment, chemical analyzers, specialist training, and closer international cooperation. Tourism Spotlight: Hollywood star Halle Berry praised Fiji as home to the “happiest people on Earth” after a family stay at Kokomo Private Island Resort, highlighting standout staff care and activities. Sports & Community: Cricket Fiji’s Super 8 returns to Suva’s Albert Park (Aug 11–15) with prize money up 300% and live TV coverage, while the OFC Men’s Champions League kicks off in Lautoka on Sunday with matches split between Lautoka and Ba. Regional Connectivity: Australia says a $500m undersea cable project has connected Pacific nations with new telecommunications links for the first time. Economy Watch: FRCS reports a record $3.51b in revenue for 2025–2026, exceeding forecast by $136.2m.

Maritime Safety: Fiji’s JRCC has resumed the search for a missing white half-cabin fibreglass boat carrying six people after it failed to reach Fulaga from Namuka, with strong winds and rough seas hampering efforts; authorities are urging mariners to keep a close lookout and report sightings to 1539 or police. Health & Security: Australia has pledged over $15m to help Fiji tackle its fastest-growing HIV outbreak, boosting health services, supplies and drug imports, with officials linking the crisis to broader security concerns. Tourism & Culture: VOU Fiji’s Flying Circus is set to tour Australia from August 2026 to January 2027, bringing contemporary dance and Fijian storytelling to major cities, with ticket proceeds supporting Fiji’s Conservatorium of Dance. Weather Watch: Fiji Met Office warns El Niño is strengthening, with below-normal rainfall expected to continue through January next year, and urges water conservation—especially for hotels and resorts. Local Industry: Prime Minister Rabuka signals a new era for Fiji’s sugar industry, saying ageing mills must eventually be replaced with smaller, more efficient ones. Tourism-Linked Agriculture: Hospitality leaders are pushing restaurants to spotlight local farmers on menus, strengthening the farm-to-visitor connection. Sports: Fiji Sports Council has advertised for a new CEO following the dismissal of Gilbert Vakalalabure.

HIV funding: Australia has pledged more than $15m to help Fiji tackle its fastest-growing HIV outbreak, citing unsafe sex and “bluetoothing” drug-sharing as the drivers. Regional diplomacy: Foreign Minister Penny Wong is heading to Fiji for the Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting, with peace and security, climate and economic development on the agenda. Tourism & weather: Fiji is bracing for drier conditions as a strengthening El Niño is forecast to persist into early 2027, with tourism urged to push water conservation in hotels and resorts. Health access in Levuka: The health ministry says private pharmacists can open in Levuka if they choose, but government won’t approach them—residents have flagged medicine shortages and a lack of an ambulance. Sports leadership: Fiji Sports Council has advertised for a new CEO after the dismissal of Gilbert Vakalalabure. Road safety: Police report two deaths in a Navua crash and renewed calls for speed humps and safer driving as Fiji’s road toll rises. Local food for visitors: Hospitality leaders say Fiji’s tourism can boost local farming by naming farmers on menus and giving credit to where ingredients come from.

Maritime Safety: The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji is reminding small boat owners, resort transport managers and commercial skippers to follow their vessel limits and required endorsements, including checks before departure, as inter-island travel ramps up. Border Tech: Fiji is rolling out an Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Records system with SITA to screen travellers before arrival, aiming to speed processing while improving risk checks. Air Connectivity: Fiji Airways is exploring a new Nadi–Western Sydney International route, tentatively pencilled for June 2027, which could boost leisure travel demand from one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions. Tourism Policy: Fiji’s Tourism Act 2026 is set to modernise rules for hotel investors and operators, bringing clearer governance, sustainability and quality standards. Local Business Payments: Mastercard-backed DUAPAY is launching for women-led micro and small businesses in Fiji, letting vendors accept card and digital payments on mobile. Sports & Travel Buzz: Fiji Bati coach Joe Rabele’s illness has led Wise Kativerata to take charge in England, while Fiji’s Tourism Fiji is also in the spotlight as the NTIA finalists list includes Tourism Fiji among popular tourism offices. Road Safety Push: After a Navua crash killed two, a Vakabalea resident renewed calls for speed humps along Vakabalea Road to prevent more deaths.

Tourism Policy: Fiji’s new Tourism Act 2026 is set to modernise the rules for hotel investors and operators, replacing decades-old legislation with clearer governance, sustainability and quality standards. Aviation & Border Tech: Fiji is rolling out a digital Advance Passenger Information/Passenger Name Records system with SITA to speed up travel processing while strengthening risk checks. Air Connectivity: Fiji Airways is exploring a potential Nadi–Western Sydney route from June 2027, aiming to tap growing demand from Australia’s fast-expanding region. Hotel & Investment Push: BSP Life says it will invest in three new hotels in the next six months and is also planning a future luxury property on Nacula Island. Maritime Safety: MSAF is reminding small boat owners and resort transport operators to follow Maritime Transport Act limits and certificate conditions, with extra endorsements needed for outer-island/open-ocean trips. Skills for Tourism: Polytech Pacific graduates (350) were urged to use work-ready trades skills to support Fiji’s development, including tourism and related sectors. Community & Reintegration: Kadavu chiefs visited Naboro Corrections Complex to support inmate reintegration and livelihood planning. Travel Disruption Watch: Vanua o Lau is renewing calls for safer outer-island sea transport after a rescue involving health workers highlighted gaps in vessel suitability and emergency response.

Tourism Policy: Fiji’s new Tourism Act 2026 replaces decades-old rules, aiming to modernise governance, sustainability, quality standards and give hotel investors clearer long-term certainty. Air Travel & Security: Fiji is rolling out a digital Advance Passenger Information/Passenger Name Records system with SITA to screen travellers before arrival, improving risk checks while keeping processing smoother for genuine passengers. New Routes & Capacity: Fiji Airways is exploring a potential Nadi–Western Sydney International service from June 2027, a move that could boost direct access for one of Australia’s fastest-growing tourism markets. Accommodation Boost: BSP Life says it will invest in three new hotels within six months, plus a future ultra-luxury Nacula Island project by 2029, strengthening Denarau and the wider visitor pipeline. Maritime Safety: After a dramatic rescue of health workers, the Vanua o Lau is calling for dedicated health vessels, expanded shipping subsidies and better coast-watch support for outer islands. Outer-Island Land Ties: Momi Bay landowners and Fiji Marriott Resort stakeholders are seeking talks over a long-running land dispute tied to a 2005 land-swap arrangement, with representation tensions still unresolved. Travel Alerts: Fiji Meteorological Service has issued a strong wind alert for multiple regions, warning mariners and residents to secure loose items as rough seas and gusts build.