The 2025 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference officially opened in Fiji today marking a historic milestone for the island nation as it is the first time the international event has been held in the Pacific.
Hosted at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort in Nadi, the conference brings together more than 350 delegates from over 30 countries. Attendees include government leaders, tourism professionals, sustainability experts, community advocates, and academic voices, all united by a shared mission to advance sustainable tourism globally.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, alongside the deputy chair for Tourism Fiji Board, Fantasha Lockington, GSTC CEO Randy Durband and vice-chair Dr Kelly Bricker.
Opening the event, Hon. Minister Gavoka reaffirmed Fiji’s leadership in climate action through tourism.
“We are proud to welcome the world to Fiji. Not just as a tourism destination, but as a leader in protecting our planet.” “We, the Pacific, are leaders in sustainable tourism. It’s not just aspiration, but part of our national identity in how we protect what is dear to us. We are showing the world what it means to lead with purpose as not only frontlines in climate adaptation, but cultural diversity,” added Hon. Gavoka.
Among the milestones shared at the event was the launch of Rosie Holidays’ new fleet of electric coaches, officially launched by Hon. Minister Gavoka. This marks a significant step in Fiji’s journey toward low-emission transport. The fleet demonstrates how local tourism businesses are investing in innovation to align with Fiji’s broader climate goals, proving that sustainability and business growth can go hand in hand. “Hosting GSTC 2025 shows the world that small island nations can lead big change. It’s an honour to welcome global changemakers to our shores and demonstrate our commitment to sustainable, community-focused tourism.” added Ms. Lockington.
“Hosting GSTC 2025 in Fiji is a powerful reminder of how vital island representation is in shaping the global conversation on sustainable tourism. Island nations like Fiji are on the frontlines of climate challenges, but they also lead with innovation, resilience, and deep-rooted cultural wisdom. Their voices are essential in building a tourism future that is both sustainable and regenerative,” GSTC CEO Randy Durband said.
This year’s conference themes focussed on coastal and island tourism, community-led development, and climate resilience. These are not abstract ideas for Pacific nations but lived realities that shape our everyday approach to tourism development and national planning.
