State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat has said tourism will play a key role in employment generation and strengthening the national economy.
The government views the tourism sector not only as an important economic driver but also as a powerful means of job creation, regional development and cultural exchange, he said.
The state minister came up with the remarks while speaking at the ‘TOAB International Tourism Award 2026’ organised by the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) at a hotel in Dhaka on Sunday, according to a PID handout.
To develop and promote the country’s 1,498 tourist attractions, the government has adopted an integrated tourism master plan covering eco-tourism, adventure tourism, religious tourism and cultural and heritage-based tourism, he added.
He also invited proposals from TOAB for policy reforms aimed at further developing the tourism sector.
He mentioned that although tourism currently contributes around 3 per cent to Bangladesh’s GDP, the government is working to raise this share to 8–9 per cent in the near future.
He expressed hope for stronger public–private partnerships in developing tourism infrastructure.
He also presented medals of honour to 13 organisations in 13 categories in recognition of their contributions to the tourism sector.