PM unveils country’s tourism strengthening strategy

Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has announced a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening Bangladesh’s tourism industry, describing the sector as a key driver of economic growth.

Speaking in parliament at Sangsad Bhaban on April 8, the premier said the government has incorporated several tourism-focused commitments into its election manifesto. These include enhancing tourist safety, introducing tourism-friendly policies, improving training for tour guides, and promoting diverse areas such as culinary, community-based, ethnic, water-based, eco, and rural tourism.

Responding to a question from a lawmaker during the session chaired by the Speaker Bir Bikram Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Rahman noted that the government is working on short-, medium-, and long-term strategies to meet the rising demand from both local and international travelers.

He also revealed that a draft of the National Tourism Master Plan has already been prepared. The plan outlines measures such as developing tourism-related laws and regulations, building tourism clusters, preserving cultural heritage, upgrading infrastructure, expanding coastal tourism, and ensuring environmental sustainability through biodiversity protection and reduced carbon emissions.

According to the Prime Minister, the master plan provides a comprehensive roadmap for the sector’s growth over the next 20 years. He added that Bangladesh currently has notable tourist attractions in more than 30 districts, and the government is working to develop region-specific tourism based on local heritage and culture to ensure balanced growth across the country.