‘We can expand our reach to attract more int’l visitors’

In an interview with The Daily Messenger, Md. Al Amin, Hotel Manager at Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel, provided valuable insights into the post-Covid state of the tourism industry. He not only discussed the challenges and opportunities in Bangladesh but also delved into the barriers hindering its expansion and the pivotal role tourism can play in the economic development of the country.

The Daily Messenger: How is the tourism business faring post-Covid?

Md. Al Amin: The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges for everyone, with tourism experiencing a significant slowdown, and at times, even facing travel restrictions. The world and the industry weren’t ready for the shock. However, as time progresses, there is a noticeable improvement, and the outlook is becoming more positive. In fact, the growth is somewhere near 25% over than the pandemic era in Asia Pacific. From 2022, the impact of covid is slowly gone from the market. Bangladesh being a business traveler market, from mid-2022 we didn’t feel the impact of the covid. However, the post covid situation impact has affected the human resources, there’s a gap, a vacuum where there is a gap of supply of human resource vs the demand we have.

Messenger: What are the current barriers to tourism business expansion in the context of Bangladesh?

Amin: The country's political and the continuous economic growth has the potential to further attract tourists. Our current approach to tourism is somewhat conventional. It is crucial to formulate a comprehensive 15 to 20-year plan with well-defined goals. This strategic planning aims not only to appeal to business travelers but also to significantly increase the influx of leisure tourists to popular destinations like Cox's Bazar and Sylhet. Presently, our local attractions primarily draw local travelers, but with strategic planning, we can expand our reach to attract more international visitors and establish a global presence, taking cues from successful neighboring countries such as India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka.

Learning from Sri Lanka's remarkable development from adverse conditions, we can implement attractive offers, incentives, and tour friendly visa processing to entice more customers into the market. The tourism sector, being heavily reliant on imported goods, faces cost challenges that impact pricing, particularly in terms of high establishment costs and room rates. This, in turn, may discourage leisure travelers. To address these issues, there is a need for a more robust human resources strategy to make a substantial impact in the market.

Messenger: How can the tourism sector play a role in the economic development of the country?

Amin: This holds significant importance, considering our contribution to earning foreign remittance. If the government provides various incentives, tax waivers, and bureaucratic processes such as permissions and licensing, it could substantially increase motivation for local investors to expand hotel businesses in the country. Given Bangladesh's appealing geo-location for tourists, aligning with the government's plans until 2041 to become a prosperous country, it becomes imperative for the industry to thrive with the support of the international stakeholders.

Messenger: What kind of initiatives can be taken to present Bangladesh appropriately to the world?

Amin: Bangladesh ought to formulate a comprehensive long-term strategy spanning 15 to 20 years, segmented into different phases. Involving industry leaders and fostering international collaborations can effectively showcase our market globally. Encouraging global industry experts to unite for collaborative initiatives is essential. Engaging local businesses through private investments can significantly enhance participation. Additionally, technology plays a crucial role in advancing the sector.

Messenger: What can be done to attract foreign tourists?

Amin: As previously stated, fostering international collaboration through cross-country promotion can draw not only business travelers but also leisure tourists to the nation. Involving diplomatic channels can serve as a valuable resource. Collaboration among embassies and high commissions can enhance the overall effort. Internal campaigns hold significant importance, and aligning with global trends from a neutral standpoint can also play a pivotal role.

Messenger: Is the role of the government in the development of tourism enough? How else can the government help?

Amin: The government has undertaken significant initiatives to improve the sector and has played a crucial role in supporting the industry's advancement. Implementing a comprehensive, long-term strategy that includes plans and incentives for private investors can contribute greatly. Aligning with global trends, boosting our allure to attract international visitors via the creation of safaris and interactive tourist areas holds great potential. Additionally, showcasing our culture on the global stage by packaging traditional events like Pahela Boishakh, Pitha Utshob and Culinary Heritage, among others, can prove effective through international collaboration. Privatization stands out as a viable option for further enhancement. The industry has witnessed substantial development in recent years, and with sustained long-term planning, its success is poised to reach new heights. Also, Government should enhance support in academic sectors to bring new generation to hospitality leadership.