kabarsula Fiji Government tourism tax now only set to apply to new bookings bandar SLOT INDONESIA

The Fijian Government has suspended the retrospective introduction of a new 5 per cent Tourism Services Tax with it now only applying to new bookings made from September 1.

The Fiji Times reported Government overturned the retrospective introduction of the new TST which was announced in the 2026–2027 National Budget by Fiji Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel. It was set to apply to hotels and tour and cruise operators – with a turnover above $1.3 million – for a period of 12 months, and intent on raising around $70 million to support Fiji Airways which has been challenged by rising global aviation fuel costs.

Families and schoolies with September holiday bookings already paid in full would have been among those affected, alongside travellers in large groups, plus corporate and film production bookings which settled balances of trips months ago.

The change means tourists who booked their Fiji holidays before September 1 will not have to pay the new tax, even if they travel and use tourism services after the tax takes effect. The tax will now remain in place until August 31, 2027.

The Fiji Government announced the change following discussions involving the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and the Tourism Action Group.

“Bookings made before 1 September 2026 will not be subject to TST, even where the tourism service is provided after that date,” the Government said in a statement. “This provides certainty for visitors and enables tourism operators to honour existing bookings and contractual arrangements.”

Government said the revised arrangement recognised the importance of tourism to Fiji’s economy.

“This practical transition reflects the Government’s recognition of tourism’s vital contribution to Fiji’s economy, employment, businesses and communities,” the statement said. “It also demonstrates the Government’s commitment to listening to the industry and working collaboratively on policies that support sustainable economic growth.”

ATIA had argued its design and rollout reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of how the travel booking ecosystem operates.

ATIA met with the Fijian Government over the issue and will update members and media as the situation develops.

Travel Weekly recently reported Fiji recorded its highest-ever monthly visitor arrivals in July.

Holidaymakers traveling to Fiji from September onward should check itemised statements or consult their travel providers should the Tourism Services Tax appear on new accommodation and activity charges.