TOURISM is the number one industry in Fiji and one of high importance to all who grew up in the mid of the industry development.

These were the sentiments shared by the paramount chief of Nadi, Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci while officially opening a newly refurbished three-star hotel in Nadi on Thursday.

Ratu Navuniuci officially opened the Hotel Martintar and said the hotel was initially established with only nine rooms and had grown to 39 rooms with a spa pool.

“We have had many setbacks in our nation such as natural disasters so investments such as this are crucial to moving our nation forward,” Ratu Navuniuci said.

“Fiji welcomes over 600,000 visitors on a yearly basis making tourism in Fiji a lucrative industry that has thrived over the years with the contribution of key stakeholders that have made tourism the industry it is today.

“The unwavering support of Government, stakeholders, foreign visitors and our very own people that has allowed tourism to strengthen existing partnerships and forging new ones all with the view to moving our industry forward and making Fiji the destination of choice for many visitors from around the world.”

He said the product Brand Fiji continued to make positive impacts.

“It is that brand that continues to drive visitors to our great nation and one that we are all so proud of employing thousands of our people allowing them to provide financial support to their families and communities,” he said.

He thanked the owners of the hotel for their commitment and investment in the tourism product.

“Martintar Hotel — a three-star hotel that will provide a unique option for our visitors looking for an affordable stay within the proximity of Nadi,” he said.