With Bangladesh on the brink of graduating to a middle income country, it must look to its sectors that have historically struggled, and devise strategies that will help turn their fortunes around.
Bangladesh's tourism sector, for example, has always had tremendous potential, owing to our vibrant cultural heritage and rich history along with our unique natural beauty. Yet, we have repeatedly failed to capitalize on all the resources we have at our disposal and build up the sector.
To that end, we agree with the recommendations made by the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) which stated that an integrated participation of the private sector entrepreneurs and the related government institutions was necessary to ensure that our tourism sector can begin flourishing.
It is true that local tourism has indeed improved in recent times, and credit must be given to the relevant authorities concerned and stakeholders for doing their part. However, this must just be a stepping stone and there is much more to be done to make the overall experience for tourists far more enjoyable, be that for domestic or international travellers. From ensuring overall safety of travellers to making sure that we learn to preserve our sites of cultural and historical significance, there is so much Bangladesh can improve on.
This also must be augmented with the appropriate policy support in addition to proper branding, so that foreign travellers are not just more aware of what Bangladesh has to offer and are eager to visit our country but, once here, will not be riddled with issues and problems that make their stay an unpleasant one.
Ultimately, it is high time we prioritize tourism in our country and do everything we can to ensure that Bangladesh rebrands itself as a tourist destination.
