United News of Bangladesh

The government has initiated a ‘Tourism Mega Plan’ aimed at attracting 5.57 crore tourists and generating over 2.19 cr jobs by 2040, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam told Parliament on Wednesday. "Under the mega plan, we have set a target to attract 5.57 crore tourists and create employment opportunities for 2.19 crore people by 2040," she said replying to a tabled starred question from BNP lawmaker AE Sultan Mahmud Babu (Jamalpur-2). Afroza Khanam stated that a series of initiatives are underway to encourage private investment and create new jobs within the sector. She noted that the ministry has adopted a comprehensive plan to promote entrepreneurship specifically encouraging women by facilitating access to low-interest loans and providing policy support in line with the government’s election manifesto. The government considers tourism a major driver of economic growth, she said, adding that the long-term ‘Tourism Mega Plan (2026–2040)’ will include a clear investment roadmap. The minister highlighted that the government is emphasizing public-private partnerships (PPP) to develop infrastructure and ensure sustainable growth. She also told the House that the National Tourism Policy is being updated in 2025 to increase sustainability and inclusivity. To support small and medium entrepreneurs, she said banks are already offering loans on easy terms, with plans to expand these facilities. Additionally, a One-Stop Service (OSS) will be introduced to assist both tourists and investors. Regarding capacity building, the minister said between FY 2021-22 and 2024-25, training was provided to 1,943 tour operators, 1,215 tour guides, 1,527 street food vendors, and 3,085 tourism volunteers. She added that the Bangladesh Tourism Board has formulated the ‘National Tourism Human Capital Development Strategy (2021–2030)’ to build a skilled workforce. Currently, about 51.9 lakh people are employed in the industry, a figure projected to rise to 72.8 lakh by 2030. Focusing on sustainable tourism, the minister said investment is being encouraged in eco-tourism and green infrastructure, particularly in Kuakata and coastal regions. Plans are also in place to expand community-based tourism to boost rural economies, she said. On women’s participation, she said initiatives are being taken to create a women-friendly environment in the hospitality sector and increase female workforce participation. Efforts are also underway to promote the festivals and handicrafts of small ethnic communities, she added. Regarding large-scale investment, the minister noted that private investment is being encouraged through the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) to establish an Exclusive Tourist Zone (ETZ) at Sabrang in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar. Furthermore, projects on Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation land in Cox’s Bazar are being implemented via PPP.