Afroza: Government aims to double tourism’s contribution to GDP

The government today unveiled an ambitious plan to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the national GDP to 6–7 percent, up from the current 3 percent, as part of wider efforts to diversify the economy.

“We aim to raise tourism’s share of GDP from the existing 3 percent to 6–7 percent,” Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam said while addressing the Deputy Commissioners’ Conference-2026 in the capital.

The day’s first session of the conference was held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium this morning, with Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani presiding.

The minister said the government is committed to implementing its election pledges at the earliest and expressed hope that deputy commissioners would take a leading role in accelerating grassroots development.

Afroza noted that Bangladesh currently has 1,742 tourist sites across the country, highlighting that every district holds tourism potential.

“We are preparing a comprehensive master plan for tourism development. By leveraging your skills, experience and innovation, we can move this sector forward,” she told the DCs.

She also urged Culture Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury to focus on developing Baliati Palace and Teota Zamindar House in Manikganj to make the heritage sites more attractive to both domestic and international tourists.

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat said deputy commissioners could act as catalysts for transformation in their respective areas by identifying new tourist destinations and ensuring a clean, safe and visitor-friendly environment.

“A new tourist spot, a clean and secure environment, or an innovative initiative can transform the economy of an entire district,” he said.

He added that Bangladesh’s journey to securing a strong position on the global tourism map would begin with local initiatives led by deputy commissioners.

State Minister for Culture Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam, Prime Minister’s Cultural Affairs Adviser Dr Zahed Ur Rahman, and other senior officials were also present.