Fiji Property Investment For Sale

"Political uncertainty is hampering the growth of the potentially dynamic tourist industry."

The pacific archipelago that is Fiji comprises 333 white sand islands in picture-perfect turquoise water – the dream tropical holiday destination and one of the top exotic locations for the rich and famous to escape to.

Previously known as The Cannibal Isles, Fiji was historically avoided by mariners because of its fierce warriors, cannibalism and treacherous seas and until 1970 had been a colony of the British Empire.  Since independence the country has been rocked by a number of military and civilian-led coups which have caused much political turmoil.

Fiji is one of the most developed Pacific island economies and is blessed with extensive forest, mineral and fish resources although remittances from Fijians working abroad, sugar exports and a growing tourist industry are the main sources of foreign exchange. Although the sugar industry accounts for one-third of all industrial activity it is not run efficiently and due to the volatile political arena there is much uncertainty and low inward investment. 

Unclear land ownership rights and the government’s lack of budgetary control is also affecting this beautiful nations property investment future.

Geography

An archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, Fiji consists of around 322 islands and 522 islets, with the two largest islands accounting for 87% of the population. With a warm and tropical climate the islands are covered in tropical forests, and remnants of a more explosive era are evident in the vertiginous mountains that rise sharply from the coastlines. The southeastern side of the islands receives predominantly more rain creating a prevalence of rainforest habitat, whilst lowlands on the sheltered western side of the islands tend to experience more marked dry seasons necessary for crop growing.

Government

Politically, Fiji has somewhat of a chequered past. The population is equally divided between indigenous-Fijians and Indo-Fijians, whose origins date back to when the islands were a British colony and Indians were brought over as contract labourers, and as such there is informal segregation at almost every social level. Since independence was granted in 1970 the country has seen numerous coups and the continued volatile political arena continues to dominate the economy.

Language

English and Fijian are both official languages but Hindustani is also spoken.

Standard of Living

The cost of living in Fiji is relatively cheap compared to the prices one might expect to pay for basic amenities in Western countries. However, due to the popularity of Fiji as a tourist destination prices for tourist based activities and accommodation can be higher than expected. The standard of living for native Fijians varies between rural and urban locations, with some rural poverty in existence. The many hours of sunshine create a relaxing atmosphere and facilitate the active outdoor lifestyle that attracts so many tourists. Fiji has a well developed economic infrastructure with good health and education services, not dissimilar to Western services. 

Rich in natural resources, Fiji has long relied upon its home grown exports to support the economy, with sugar exportation accounting for a large proportion of foreign income. Rich with forect, mineral and fish resouces Fiji is one of the most developed economies in the Pacific Islands. Tourism is now playing a major role within the Fijian economy, accounting for over a quarter of the national GDP, but the recurrences of political coups continues to hinder masses growth in this potentially lucrative market.

Key industries:

Sugar and tourism continue to dominate but FIji also benefits from timer, fish, gold, copper, offshore oil and hydrpower.

With its popularity rapidly increasing, Fiji is witnessing an increasing number of resorts on its islands. Such developments are multiplying at an expeditious rate as a growing number of international investors come to take advantage of the low prices, stunning scenery, temperate climes and multitude of outdoor activities that Fiji has to offer. As such, resorts can be found on many of the larger islands (just over 100 are permanently inhabited), and welcome big names, both in terms of developments, developers and guests. With the increasing development levels, Fiji is maturing into a potential property hotspot.

It is worth keeping an eye on where the big-name developers choose to locate their complexes as they will either be situated near essential amenities or provide their own and as such earmark prime investment areas. Although infrastructure on the island is improving, many of the roads are still of poor quality and outside the main urban areas there is little running water. These are essential criteria that need to be considered; the allure of a secluded villa in the middle of the tropical jungle, although tempting is not very practical.

Nadi

Nadi, on the main island Viti Levu, is known as the gateway to Fiji as it is the first place the majority of visitors see as they step off the plane in the international airport. It has the greatest amount of tourist facilities in Fiji and tucked away in nearby secluded beach corners are hotel names such as Sheraton, Hilton and Radisson. It is an important commercial centre due to the concentration of facilities, amenities and the large number of residents. One of the largest cities on the islands, Nadi is also the gateway to the Mamanuca Group, a beautiful archipelago of island reefs to the west of Nadi that reputedly have Fiji's highest "sunshine factor" and excellent natural facilities for aquatic activities. 

Suva

The capital of Fiji, Suva, is also on Viti Levu located to the south east of the island. With remnants of the colonial period visible, Suva contains the University of the South Pacific, many striking government and parliament buildings and iconic constructions such as the Roman Catholic Cathedral. It is a bustling, industrious place, with a natural harbour for sailing enthusiasts, and has lots going on to entertain tourists.

Vatuele and Wakaya

Situated in the wider Viti Levu area, off the Coral Coast, are the islands of Vatuele and Wakaya, both exclusive resorts with restricted access. To the south east of Viti Levu is Pacific Harbour which is renowned as the 'adventure capital' and draws outdoor enthusiasts from all around the world. Developed as a complete visitor destination it has the support of full amenities, including its own 18 hole championship golf course.

Vanua Levu

Vanua Levu is the second largest island and boasts elite resorts such as the Namale exclusive spa, and the Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort. There are many other luxury resorts tailored to the upmarket community situated on the smaller surrounding islands and many more that are leaving the design board and are in the process of being developed.