Tourism Sector to Become Major Driver of Employment and Economy: State Minister

The government considers tourism not only as an economic sector but also as a powerful tool for employment generation regional development and cultural exchange said State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat MP.

He made the remarks while addressing the “TOAB International Tourism Award 2026” organized by the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh in Banani Dhaka on Sunday May 17.

Speaking as the chief guest the state minister said the government has adopted an integrated tourism master plan to develop and promote the country’s 1,498 tourist attractions.

He added that the plan gives special priority to eco tourism adventure tourism religious tourism and cultural and heritage based tourism.

The minister also invited policy reform proposals from TOAB for the development of the tourism sector. He said tourism currently contributes around three percent to the country’s GDP and the government is working to raise the figure to eight to nine percent in the future.

He also emphasized public private partnership based investment to improve tourism infrastructure.

During the event the state minister presented honorary awards to 13 organizations in 13 categories in recognition of their special contributions to the tourism sector at “TITA 2026.”

Upoma/M.