The effects of Covid -19 has been nothing but a financial disaster for South Pacific island nations. Islands who heavily rely on and prosper from tourism have been devastated. Hard borders introduced around the globe to protect citizens, has left sport fishing tourism reeling.

Tourism makes up 2.8% of global GDP. Some countries in the South Pacific tourism represents 40% of their GDP. It comes as no surprise that not only are the countries suffering heavily, but the roll-on effect of zero tourism from the hard border closures has left all tourism businesses devastated.

The Sport Fishing Industry Reeling!

In Australia, there has been a slight silver lining of some support from the government to cover fixed costs. Jobkeeper helped businesses retain their employees providing a bridge to opening up. However, in countries like Vanuatu, there has been little if no support from government. The only support has been from the Banks delaying loan re-payments or allowing interest only payments for those who are able. So where does this leave your favourite fishing charter operator or hotel?

With little or no income, it becomes difficult to retain staff. Some are lucky enough to be offered to stay on at reduced pay, but most resorts, hotels and restaurants have had to let all their employees go. There is now 10’s of thousands of islanders out of jobs. Luckily the people of the Pacific are very resilient and are able to live off the land, selling their garden goods at the local market to make ends meet.

During the pandemic, Australia’s hard border closure meant a lack of backpackers and 457 visa holders being able to fill the jobs Aussies simply don’t want to do. With mass unemployment in Vanuatu and other South Pacific nations, a mass exodus has taken place, filling those shortages made possible via the seasonal worker programme and pacific labour scheme. 

These programmes bring one problem. When the borders do open, staff shortages are going to become a massive issue for the Pacific tourism companies and operators still left standing. Lucky for us at Ocean Blue, we have been able to retain key employees so when the borders do open, it won’t take long for us to be back in full swing.

The Positives?

Let’s look at a few of the positives that have come out of this pandemic.

Vanuatu being a year-round fishery, resident fish such as the dogtooth tuna and giant trevally have seen a lot of lures and jigs in the last decade. With a good two-year break, I can tell you that the topwater fishing and jigging will be insane.

Most hotels and resorts have guests year-round meaning it is nearly impossible to do renovations and construction. Many companies have been lucky enough to take advantage of this downtime and have used it to their advantage, doing renovations on rooms and their property.

It’s been a tough time to be involved in the tourism sector. For those who are able, we encourage travelling anglers to support their favourite charter company and rediscover your next adventure.

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