The Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Premila Kumar in Parliament. [Source: Fijian Parliament]

Visitor Arrivals for the first four months of this year recorded a 5.8 percent increase.

This has recorded earnings of $366.6m improving on the $358.2m for the same period last year.

This was highlighted by the Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Premila Kumar in Parliament while contributing to the debate on the 2019/2020 National Budget.

Kumar also revealed that the financial year will see the delivery of two A350’s by Fiji Airways and this will give Fiji and the Fijian Tourism Industry a bigger footprint and a world-class travel experience.

She also highlighted that over the years’ government has provided Fijians with what they need most which include affordable and accessible education, water supply, electricity, better roads and bridges, improved connectivity and the ability to make a good living.

Kumar says the 2019/2020 National budget is about collaboration and working smarter to perform better and more with less and it defines the way the civil servants are expected to work.

The Minister also highlighted a number of capital projects under the Ministry of Local Government that they hope to complete in the new financial year.

“The projects that are expected to be completed in the 2019/2020 financial year include the Namaka, Rakiraki and Laqere markets, swimming pool in Lautoka, Govind Park Stadium in Ba, construction of restroom in Korovou, upgrade of children’s park in Labasa and Nasinu and construction of minimarkets in Nakasi, Mead Road and RB Centre Point in Suva and on Viam Pillay Road in Lautoka. Construction will commence on the improvement on ventilation and lighting at Lautoka Markets and installation of floodlights at Churchill Park.”

Kumar then went on to highlight that the 2019/2020 budget builds on a plan for a stronger economy, an economy that benefits Fijians, their families and businesses.