Fiji’s tourism industry is poised for significant growth with the launch of three new resort developments under a partnership between The Yavu Collective and international hospitality group Accor.

The announcement was made on June 11 by Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka during the official unveiling of The Yavu Collective at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau.

The three projects are expected to generate more than 600 employment opportunities while reinforcing investor confidence in Fiji’s tourism sector.

Leading the developments is The Sebel Nuku-Loaloa, a $70 million project comprising 76 accommodation units. Scheduled to open later this year, the resort is expected to create over 80 jobs.

The second development, Tribe Na Tomba, will introduce Fiji’s first lifestyle resort of its kind. Valued at $74 million, the property will feature 118 rooms and conference facilities capable of hosting up to 200 delegates. More than 110 jobs are expected to be created when the resort opens in the fourth quarter of this year.

The largest of the three projects, Sofitel Vatu Talei, will offer 176 rooms and an extensive range of luxury amenities, including four swimming pools, Fiji’s first lazy river, a rooftop beach club with a 50-metre infinity pool, a luxury spa, Gold Class cinema, an adults-only retreat and curated day-cruise experiences. The development is projected to create more than 400 jobs and attract a new segment of premium travellers to Fiji.

Speaking at the launch, Gavoka said the investments signalled growing confidence in Fiji as a tourism destination. He highlighted that Fiji welcomed close to one million visitors last year, generating $2.81 billion in tourism revenue despite ongoing global economic challenges.

He added that the nation is targeting 1.25 million visitor arrivals and $4 billion in tourism earnings by 2027, a goal that will require an estimated 4,000 additional hotel rooms.

Gavoka also officially announced the rebranding of The Richmond Group to The Yavu Collective, noting that “Yavu,” meaning foundation, reflects the company’s strong roots and long-term vision.

By early next year, The Yavu Collective is expected to become Fiji’s largest hotel operator through the support of BSP Life, Fiji Airways and its strategic partnership with Accor.

“The Government does not want investment that simply builds resorts. We want investment that builds Fiji,” Gavoka said.