Bangladesh is positioning itself as a promising tourist destination, and stakeholders at the 10th Asian Tourism Fair (ATF) emphasized the need for government action and increased private sector investment during the event’s opening ceremony.

Organized by Parjatan Bichitra, the ATF kicked off at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre and will run until Saturday.

Mahbub Ali, the state minister for the Ministry of Civil Aviation & Tourism, expressed the government’s commitment to making Bangladesh an emerging global destination. 

The government has explored ten primary themes under its first tourism master plan, including eco-tourism, riverine, cruise, adventure, beach, archaeological, historical, pilgrimage, spiritual, MICE (meeting, incentives, conference, and exhibitions), and ethno and rural tourism. 

Health and wellness, medical, and SAVE (Scientific, academic, volunteer, and education) tourism are being considered.

Md. Mokammel Hossain, secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation & Tourism, emphasized that while challenges may arise, the government is prepared to support and provide solutions for the industry’s growth.

Lokman Hossain Miah, executive chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, highlighted the focus on environmentally friendly tourism investments and the responsibility to create suitable investment opportunities for investors.

The ATF featured around 150 tourism companies from various countries, including Bangladesh, India, China, Nepal, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Dubai. Visitors had access to diverse packages, discounts, and offers for both business-to-business (B2B) enterprises and tourists.