Govt envisions major tourism expansion: Millat
Tourism sector is expected to contribute up to 9% to GDP as Bangladesh moves to expand infrastructure and investment
ATT Correspondent 
The government is moving forward with an ambitious plan to expand Bangladesh’s tourism sector and transform it into a major contributor to economic growth, employment generation and regional development, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat said on Sunday.
Speaking at the “TOAB International Tourism Award (TITA) 2026” ceremony held at Sheraton Dhaka, the state minister said the government aims to increase tourism’s contribution to the national gross domestic product (GDP) to around 8 to 9 per cent in the coming years.
The event was organised by the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB).
Millat said the government considers tourism not only as a major economic sector but also as an effective tool for employment generation, cultural exchange and balanced regional development.
He said an integrated tourism master plan has already been adopted covering the development and promotion of 1,498 tourist attractions across the country.
According to the state minister, the master plan includes initiatives related to eco-tourism, adventure tourism, religious tourism, and culture- and heritage-based tourism.
“We want to build a sustainable and globally competitive tourism industry in Bangladesh,” he said, adding that the government is working to improve tourism infrastructure, connectivity and investment opportunities.
Millat also invited policy recommendations from tourism stakeholders, industry leaders and private sector operators to support ongoing reforms in the sector.
He expressed optimism that Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives would play a major role in expanding tourism facilities and attracting new investment in the industry.
The state minister made the remarks while handing over awards to organisations and individuals for their contributions to tourism promotion.
He also presented honorary medals to 13 organisations in 13 categories at TITA 2026 in recognition of their special contributions to the tourism sector.
