Fiji’s Tourism Ministry partners with the Pacific Tourism Organisation for the South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2026

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) is pleased to announce the Fiji Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (MTCA) as a key Bronze sponsorship category for the South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2026 (SPTE 2026), to be held from 25–26 March 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Resort & Spa, Nadi, Fiji.

This partnership reinforces Fiji’s strategic role as the aviation and tourism hub of the Pacific, serving as a central gateway that connects Pacific Island destinations with global markets, media, and trade partners. It also reflects MTCA’s ongoing commitment to fostering regional collaboration, strengthening industry relationships, and enhancing engagement with international media and travel partners to elevate Pacific tourism narratives.

Held under the theme “Tourism that Connects: Culture, Climate, Community,” SPTE 2026 will celebrate the Pacific as a shared ocean of cultures, traditions, and knowledge systems, unified through the enduring spirit of the Pacific vaka — symbolising collective navigation, partnership, and resilience. As the Pacific’s premier tourism marketplace, SPTE provides a dynamic platform for tourism operators and stakeholders to showcase authentic experiences to international buyers, media representatives, and development partners.

Tourism Permanent Secretary Salaseini Daunabuna said the partnership reflects Fiji’s continued leadership in strengthening regional tourism cooperation and positioning the Pacific as a globally competitive destination.

“SPTE 2026 represents more than a professional collaboration; it symbolises our shared commitment to strengthening partnerships across the Pacific and creating meaningful connections within the global travel industry. Fiji is proud to serve as the hub that brings our Pacific neighbours together, providing a platform where our diverse cultures, environmental stewardship, and community-driven tourism experiences can be showcased collectively. Through collaboration with SPTO, we continue to drive innovation, excellence, and long-term sustainability across the region’s tourism sector.”

SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker welcomed the partnership, highlighting the strategic importance of Fiji’s leadership and connectivity in advancing regional tourism development.

“Fiji plays a vital role as a connector for Pacific tourism, linking our island destinations to international markets and opportunities. Our partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation reflects a shared vision of strengthening regional collaboration and navigating the future of Pacific tourism together. SPTE 2026 provides an important platform for our member countries to elevate their global

visibility while promoting tourism that respects our cultures, supports climate resilience, and empowers our communities.”

The partnership between MTCA and SPTO demonstrates the growing importance of unified regional approaches to tourism development, reinforcing shared goals of sustainable growth, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment across Pacific Island nations.

SPTE 2026 is expected to bring together tourism operators, international buyers, media representatives, and industry partners from across the globe, further strengthening business linkages and promoting the Pacific as a region united by shared values, heritage, and aspirations for a sustainable tourism future.