AGP Executive Report

Accessible Tourism Upgrade: Fiji’s tourism operators are adding mobility gear for beach and ocean access, including special mats and carbon-fibre wheelchairs that can go into the water at spots like the Mamanuca sandbanks. Pacific Media & Peace Vision: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka urged Pacific media to stay independent and connected, so remote communities can shape the “Ocean of Peace” vision. Six Senses Fiji Surf Boost: Six Senses Fiji partnered with Haydenshapes to expand its surfboard fleet on Malolo Island, launching a direct-booking surf package. Fiji Airways Connectivity: Fiji Airways has reinstated direct Nadi–Nouméa flights twice weekly, adding 10,000+ seats annually and strengthening Fiji’s Pacific hub role. Yachting Push: SPTO and partners launched a Pacific yachting strategy (2026–2030) focused on sustainable growth, better data, and community benefits. Fiji Wedding Expo: Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa will host Fiji’s inaugural Wedding Expo on 14 November, bringing together local wedding suppliers and travel partners. Qantas Non-Stop Buzz (Regional Interest): Qantas confirmed non-stop Sydney–New York flights from mid-2028 under Project Sunrise, a major long-haul shift for travellers across the Pacific.

Direct Air Links: Fiji Airways has reinstated direct Nadi–Nouméa flights, operating twice weekly (Tuesdays and Fridays) with over 10,000 seats annually, boosting travel for holidays, business and family visits and reinforcing Fiji as a Pacific hub. Tourism & Travel Policy: Australia has named 10 Pacific countries eligible for its Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, including Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu—supporting skills, income and remittances. Regional Tourism Strategy: The Pacific Tourism Organisation and partners launched a Pacific Tourism Yachting Strategy 2026–2030, aiming to grow yachting tourism while improving regulation, data and community benefits. Fiji Tourism Confidence Amid Health Crisis: Fiji’s HIV emergency response continues to be discussed, including concerns about injecting drug risks and the need to promote prevention options without scaring travellers. Local Travel Business: Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa will host Fiji’s inaugural Wedding Expo on November 14, bringing together local and international wedding suppliers. Transport Costs: Fiji bus operators are urging urgent reinstatement of 22.5% government support after it ended on 31 August, warning rising fuel prices could disrupt public transport. Sports Tourism Angle: Fiji Rugby is exploring taking a home Test against South Africa to Western Australia to drive sports tourism and wider economic benefits.

Direct Air Links: Fiji Airways has reinstated direct Nadi–Nouméa flights, operating twice weekly from 22 September (Tuesdays and Fridays), adding 10,000+ seats a year and making it easier for travellers to connect onward across the Pacific, NZ, Asia, Australia and North America. HIV & Travel Confidence: Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency after infections surged, with officials expanding testing and treatment; Fiji Airways says the situation should not deter visitors, while health coverage highlights the need for informed, practical responses. Resort Upgrades: Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa (Denarau) is planning major upgrades for the next 20 years, including a new lobby, room and restaurant refurbishments, and broader guest-experience improvements. Tourism Growth in the North: Macuata Tourism Association has launched in Labasa, urging the province to be ready to benefit from rising tourism tied to the Na Vualiku Tourism Development, with a focus on protecting land, waters and reefs. Food & Culture: Fiji Chefs Association’s Crest Chicken Fiji Chef of the Year Challenge will bring international judges to Fiji and include an Australia team in a Culture and Heritage category. Healthcare Spotlight: Pasifika Specialist Healthcare (PSH) says its Savai‘i hospital project is paused for governance restructure, while PSH also funded a 14-year-old Samoan girl’s corrective heart surgery in Fiji.

HIV & Travel Safety: Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency after data showed 1 in 60 adults are living with HIV, with new infections surging and health services expanding testing and treatment—raising fresh questions for visitors and regional mobility. Tourism Numbers: Fiji hit a record 105,791 visitor arrivals in July and surpassed 100,000 in a single month for the first time, as Tourism Fiji pushes “value over volume” and more sustainable benefits. Resort Upgrades: Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa (Denarau) is planning major upgrades for the next 20 years, including a new lobby plus room and dining refurbishments. Aviation & Access: Fly Fiji is investing in a new twin-engine IFR helicopter to boost high-end tourism access, including direct transfers to the Namena diving resort. Local Tourism Growth: Macuata Tourism Association launched at Nukubati Great Sea Reef, aiming to help the North tap tourism opportunities while protecting reefs, culture and land. Regional Security: Australia’s defence minister and other Pacific leaders will meet in Fiji for the South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting, focused on maritime security and resilience. Sports & Culture: Fiji’s FMF Inter District Championship 2026 pools are drawn; and Fiji chefs gear up for the Crest Chicken Chef of the Year challenge with Australian competitors and international judges.

HIV Emergency & Tourism Confidence: Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency after data showed 1 in 60 adults are living with HIV, with new infections surging and young people hit hardest; Deputy PM and tourism minister Viliame Gavoka says Fiji will be open about the crisis to protect visitor confidence, while the government ramps up testing and treatment. Tourism Milestone: Fiji welcomed a record 105,791 visitors in July, topping 100,000 monthly arrivals for the first time, as Tourism Fiji and industry leaders push for “value over volume” growth that benefits communities. Luxury Travel & Access: Fly Fiji is expanding with a new twin-engine IFR helicopter to better serve high-end tourism, including direct transfers to the Namena diving resort. Resort Spotlight: Kokomo Private Island in Kadavu is profiled as a long-built luxury escape reached by seaplane or helicopter. Pacific Ocean Protection: The Bezos Earth Fund announced US$25m in grants to protect tropical Pacific waters, supporting marine protected areas across multiple island nations. Food & Culture: Fiji chefs will compete in the 2026 Crest Chicken Fiji Chef of the Year Challenge with Australian rivals and international judges, including a Culture and Heritage category. Caregiver Mobility: Fiji is finalising an agreement to send up to 1,500 caregivers to Israel over 12 months, with the first group of 25 expected by December. Rugby on the Calendar: The Flying Fijians will face South Africa in a major 2027 Test in Australia ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

Culinary Spotlight: Fiji chefs will face Australian competitors in the 2026 Crest Chicken Fiji Chef of the Year Challenge, judged by four international judges under the Worldchefs banner, with categories spanning cooking, hygiene, creativity and a Culture & Heritage segment. Tourism Growth Milestone: Fiji hit a new high with 105,791 visitor arrivals in July—first time topping 100,000 in a month—while Tourism Fiji and Minister Viliame Gavoka urged a shift to “value over volume” and stronger benefits for local communities. HIV & Tourism Confidence: Deputy PM and Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka says Fiji will be open about its HIV and drug challenges to protect tourist confidence, pointing to a Cabinet subcommittee and a focused response as the country declares a national HIV emergency. Caregiver Labour Mobility: Fiji and Israel are finalising an agreement that could send up to 1,500 Fijian caregivers over 12 months, with the first 25 expected to arrive by December. Aviation/Travel Access: New Zealand and Australia both published updated transit-without-visa lists and conditions, including the need for an NZeTA for NZ transit. Eco-Tourism Push: Fiji Development Bank and Sasakawa Peace Foundation are exploring community-based eco-tourism and agri-tourism in maritime areas, linking conservation with local livelihoods.

HIV & Tourism Confidence: Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency after data showed the infection rate has surged to about 1 in 60 adults, with government expanding testing and treatment while tourism minister Viliame Gavoka says Fiji will be “open” about challenges to protect visitor confidence. Visitor Growth Milestone: Fiji hit a record 105,791 visitor arrivals in July, topping 100,000 for the first time in a month, as Tourism Fiji’s Industry Day urged a shift from “value over volume” for more sustainable benefits. Eco-Tourism Push: Fiji Development Bank and Sasakawa Peace Foundation are exploring community-based eco-tourism in Levuka and Vanua Balavu, linking marine protection and cultural preservation with local income. Aviation & Access: Fly Fiji is investing in a new twin-engine helicopter to boost high-end tourism and improve transfers to Namena Reef diving, while Fiji’s tourism ties with Israel are set to bring 1,500 caregivers and more visitors via upcoming travel programmes. Transport Costs: Fiji Taxi Association has raised concerns with the FCCC over proposed taxi fare changes, seeking to keep the general fare at 14 cents per 100 metres.

Aviation & Access: Fly Fiji is adding a new twin-engine IFR helicopter to expand high-end tourism support, including direct transfers from Nadi to the rebuilt Namena luxury diving resort. Tourism Milestone: Fiji hit a record 105,791 visitor arrivals in July—first time monthly arrivals topped 100,000—pushing the industry to focus on value, jobs and community benefits, not just numbers. Women’s Sport & Tourism: Shangri-La Yanuca Island renewed its Women’s Division support for the McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s, backing the event as a platform for women’s rugby and destination exposure. Eco-Tourism Push: Fiji Development Bank and Sasakawa Peace Foundation are exploring community-based eco-tourism and agri-tourism in Levuka and Vanua Balavu, linking marine protection and cultural heritage with local income. HIV & Visitor Confidence: Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka says Fiji will be open about HIV and drugs as a global issue, arguing honesty protects tourist confidence; Fiji also faces a national HIV emergency. Travel Safety/Legal: A Nigerian national’s 38-day overstay is highlighted in a High Court trial tied to alleged meth importation. Local Transport: Fiji Taxi Association asks the FCCC to keep the general taxi fare at 14 cents per 100 metres while submissions are prepared. Rugby Finance: FRU expects about $7.8m from Flying Fijians Test matches in Europe. Regional Tourism Strategy: SPTO launched a Pacific yachting strategy aiming to bring high-value, low-impact visitors and more spending to remote communities.

HIV & Tourism Response: Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency as cases surge, with the tourism minister stressing the country remains “very open” and that visitors from Australia and New Zealand should not let the outbreak derail travel plans. Local Transport Costs: The Fiji Taxi Association has submitted concerns to the FCCC over proposed taxi fare changes, asking that the current general fare of 14 cents per 100 metres be kept for 3–5 years. Tourism Growth via Yachting: The Pacific Tourism Organisation launched a 2026–2030 yachting strategy aimed at bringing higher-value visitors to remote communities and boosting local business spend. Infrastructure for a Tourism Hub: The Water Authority of Fiji says a temporary sewer pipeline for Denarau Road is on track to finish by end of September to reduce bursts, overflows and service disruptions. Regional Travel Policy: Labour in New Zealand says it will expand visa-waiver travel for Pacific Islands Forum citizens to make it easier for families to visit for weddings, funerals and cultural events. Pre-COP31 Prep: Fiji is stepping up preparations for the Pacific-led Pre-COP, briefing stakeholders on venues, accommodation, transport and media coordination ahead of COP31.

HIV & Tourism Response: Fiji’s tourism minister Viliame Gavoka says the country is “very open” to visitors despite a national HIV emergency, after health officials confirmed about 1 in 60 adults are living with HIV and warned the situation is a once-in-a-generation crisis; the government is expanding rapid testing and prevention measures, aiming to reassure travellers that HIV is not a reason to cancel trips. Public Health Emergency: Fiji formally declared the national HIV emergency as new diagnoses surged, with reports of rising infections including among babies, pushing urgent care and prevention scaling. Tourism Industry Focus: Tourism Fiji’s Industry Day 2026 signals a shift from chasing visitor numbers to building more value, competitiveness, and wider community participation after record arrivals. Infrastructure for Visitors: A temporary Denarau sewer pipeline is on track to finish by end of September, designed to reduce bursts and protect a key tourism corridor. UK Cooperation: Fiji is seeking deeper UK ties to diversify beyond tourism, including digital transformation and support for MSMEs, plus possible UK-backed financing for water infrastructure. Sports Tourism: Musket Cove Fiji Regatta Week is drawing international sailors and boosting hotel stays and visitor spending. Travel Safety & Planning: Road Safety Day 2026 highlights “Road Safety Starts with Me” education for children as Fiji pushes safer behaviour early.

HIV Emergency: Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency after estimates rose to about 1 in 60 adults living with HIV, with 2,016 new diagnoses reported in 2025 and health officials warning the surge could spill into wider community risk. Tourism Response: Tourism Fiji says the industry is shifting from chasing visitor numbers to building more value, competitiveness and wider community participation after a record 986,367 visitors in 2025 and 105,791 arrivals in July. Aviation & Connectivity: Fiji Airways hosted the first-ever oneworld Management Board meeting in Fiji, underlining the airline’s growing global reach for travellers. Infrastructure for Visitors: A temporary Denarau sewer rising main is on track to be completed by end of September to reduce recurring bursts and keep Fiji’s major tourism hub running smoothly. Road Safety: The Land Transport Authority is pushing road safety education from early childhood, launching Road Safety Day 2026 at a Suva primary school. Sports Tourism: Fijian Drua says eight home games in 2027 could lift sports tourism revenue to around $130m, with venues still being finalised. Travel Industry Links: Fiji’s Tourism Action Group welcomed Australia and New Zealand travel industry CEOs as observers, aiming to keep both key source markets’ perspectives in the mix. Cruise & Leisure: Musket Cove Fiji Regatta Week is drawing international and local sailors, with organisers saying visitors and hotel stays are a big part of the tourism boost. Safety Alert for Travellers: A shark attack during a dolphin excursion in the Bahamas left a diver seriously injured, a reminder that marine activities can carry real risks.

HIV & Travel Impact: Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency as new diagnoses surge, with officials saying one in 60 adults is living with HIV and pointing to expanded testing, PrEP access, harm-reduction services and free treatment—while New Zealand travel advisories urge visitors to avoid higher-risk activities. Tourism Strategy: Tourism Fiji’s Industry Day 2026 focused on shifting from record visitor numbers to stronger economic value, competitiveness and wider community participation after 986,367 visitors in 2025 and 100,000+ arrivals in a month. Sports Tourism Boost: Fijian Drua says eight home games in 2027 could lift annual local revenue from about $108m to around $130m, with venues still being finalised. Aviation & Connectivity: Fiji Airways hosted oneworld management leaders in Fiji, highlighting wider single-ticket network benefits for travellers. Cruise & Community: Musket Cove Fiji Regatta Week is drawing international sailors and visitors, supporting hotels and local tourism. Travel Deals & Loyalty: Flight Centre’s World360 Rewards teamed with Spotify on a $47,000 “Passion Project” travel competition, including Fiji Airways flights and accommodation. Visa News (Regional): Labour in New Zealand promises visa-free travel for Pacific Islanders via NZeTA changes, while Australia announced lower specialist skills visa fees for citizens of Fiji and other Pacific nations.

HIV Emergency: Fiji has declared HIV a national emergency, shifting from outbreak response to a wider Cabinet-led push that includes needle and syringe programmes, expanded testing and prevention medicine like PrEP, harm-reduction services and free treatment—aimed at cutting stigma and accelerating care. Traveller Watch: New Zealanders planning Fiji trips are being told to avoid higher-risk activities after SafeTravel warnings, while experts say the declaration mainly reinforces basic health messaging. Tourism & Transport: South Sea Cruises Group will bring Fiji’s first electric coaches to Port Denarau next month, promising quieter, zero-emissions transfers for cruise daytrips and resort connections. Sports Tourism: Fijian Drua’s 2027 Super Rugby Pacific home run is set to boost the local economy, with eight home matches expected to lift annual revenue from about $108m to around $130m, plus more business for host towns. Local Stays & Jobs: Rakiraki eco-tourism operator Nanumi Au Eco Village received a $15,000 grant to expand facilities, host more community events and create local jobs. Health & Community: Fiji’s suicide prevention committee warns of festive-season spikes and urges stronger community support and help-seeking before problems worsen.

HIV Response: Fiji has formally declared a national HIV emergency as the epidemic spreads, with the government shifting from an outbreak-only approach to a wider, Cabinet-led plan including expanded testing, prevention medicine like PrEP, harm-reduction services, and a new needle and syringe programme. Public Health & Travel: Fiji Airways says the tourism appeal hasn’t been dented, while travel advisories are urging visitors to avoid higher-risk activities as case numbers rise. Women’s Health: A new University of Otago study highlights major knowledge gaps in Pacific women about gynaecological cancer symptoms, urging earlier testing and follow-up. Cyclone Readiness: Pacific families in Fiji, Samoa and Tonga are stepping up home protection ahead of cyclone season through community-led resilience programmes. Tourism & Transport: South Sea Cruises Group will launch Fiji’s first electric coaches in October for lower-noise, zero-emissions transfers around Port Denarau. Local Tourism Jobs: A Rakiraki eco-tourism business received a tourism grant to expand facilities, host cultural events, and create local jobs. Sports Tourism: Fijian Drua’s 2027 Super Rugby Pacific draw includes eight home matches, with organisers forecasting a boost to the local economy.

Tourism & Health Update: Fiji Airways says Cabinet’s HIV outbreak declaration as a national crisis won’t dent demand, pointing to a record 1 million+ visitor arrivals in the past 12 months and promising up-to-date info for travellers. Airport Convenience: Korea-funded phone charging stations have been installed at Nadi International Airport to help passengers stay powered while waiting for flights. Accommodation Investment: Government has welcomed a $60m hotel development in Nadi, expected to create jobs and boost local contracting and procurement. Water Security for Visitors: Fiji’s Water Authority is seeking about $500m for water and wastewater projects under a Fiji-Australia partnership, with Nadi-Lautoka upgrades flagged as key for tourism and communities. Regional Travel & Care: Tongan patients are travelling to Fiji for heart treatment not available at home, with airfares, accommodation and medical costs covered. Sports Tourism: Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will host eight home games in the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season across Suva, Lautoka and Ba—great news for fans planning trips. Safety Watch: Police are investigating a fatal Rakiraki head-on collision that killed a man in his 40s, as Fiji’s road toll continues to rise.

Tourism & Health: Fiji Airways says Fiji’s HIV crisis won’t dent demand, pointing to a record-breaking 1 million+ visitor arrivals in a 12-month period and promising accurate updates for travellers. Public Health Warning: A New Zealand health researcher says Fiji is seeing “horrendously high” HIV-related deaths among babies, urging visitors to avoid risky activities and highlighting gaps like stigma and testing access. Airport Upgrade: Korea-funded charging stations are now installed at Nadi Airport to make it easier for passengers to power up while waiting. New Hotel Investment: A $60m Wyndham-branded hotel development is underway in Nadi (102 rooms), with government backing focused on jobs, local procurement and skills. Water Projects: Fiji’s Water Authority is seeking about $500m for water and wastewater works under a Fiji–Australia partnership, with Nadi–Lautoka supply upgrades flagged as key for tourism. Medical Tourism Link: Tongan patients are travelling to Fiji for heart care not available at home, with procedures including angiography and stents at PSH Hospitals in Nadi. Super Rugby Buzz: The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will host eight home games in 2027, with fixtures across Suva, Lautoka and Ba—good news for fans planning trips. Climate Meeting: Fiji is preparing for Pre-COP31 in early October, expecting 2,000+ delegates across three Nadi venues. Local Services Concern: A Nadi resident says Lautoka Aspen Hospital has lacked an ear and nose specialist for four months, pushing patients to travel to Suva. Sports & Travel: The Highlanders’ 2027 draw includes a tough opening trip to Fiji, adding more rugby travel demand for the islands.