Tourists from Chinese mainland and Hong Kong are expected to increase in Fiji following approval of the passports (visa exemption) (amendment) order, said a Fiji official Wednesday.

According to passports (visa exemption) (amendment) order released Wednesday, Fiji Customs currently exempt Chinese from obtaining visas to enter Fiji, said Fiji live, a Suva-based news service.

It said the move follows a submission by the interim Prime Minister, presented by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau to Cabinet Tuesday.

The 800-plus volcanic and coral islands that make up the Pacific nation of Fiji enjoy a tropical climate and are a prime destination for tourists. Currently, citizens of a total of 103 countries and regions are exempted from obtaining a visa prior to entering Fiji.

Nailatikau said he is sure visa exemption will attract more visitors from Chinese mainland and Hong Kong.

"This will create additional employment to the local populationin the hotel industry," said Nailatikau.