Tourism sector saw no visible development in 20yrs: Minister

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has said Bangladesh’s tourism sector had declined over the past 20 years, with no visible development during the period.

He made the remarks while opening the 13th Asian Tourism Fair (ATF) at Bashundhara International Convention Centre in the capital on Thursday.

The minister said the government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has given importance to tourism as part of a wider plan for economic diversification, job creation and balanced regional development.

“We have started from a dark situation. So, we have plans to work at every level of tourism. Our message is that we cannot wait until tomorrow; we must start now,” he said.

More than 200 organisations from 10 countries, including Bangladesh, are taking part in this year’s fair through around 300 stalls in three halls.

The fair features the ‘Destination Bangladesh Showcase’, ‘International Tourism Showcase’ and ‘Bangladesh Tourism Investment Showcase’. It also includes B2B sessions, seminars, destination presentations, panel discussions and networking events.

Cultural performances from Bangladesh, Nepal and the Philippines will also be held every evening.

-AJM