Photo: Messenger
Tour Operators in the country have pointed out that despite the potential for growth in tourism, several significant obstacles persist. These include a lack of sufficient promotion efforts, challenges in obtaining visas, the absence of an e-visa system, and complexities in securing permission to visit the three hilly districts of Bangladesh. These factors collectively hinder the country's ability to establish itself as a popular tourist destination among international travelers. Addressing these challenges could greatly enhance Bangladesh's appeal and accessibility to tourists from around the globe.
Shiblul Azam Qureshi, President of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB), highlighted the issue of inadequate promotion of Bangladeshi tourism on the global stage during a press conference at a city hotel on Tuesday. He emphasised that Bangladesh is not widely recognized or familiar in the global arena when it comes to tourism. This lack of visibility and promotion hampers the country's ability to attract international tourists and compete effectively in the global tourism market.
In answering another question, he said that tourism is no more a luxury for the people as it has come to the reach of the middle and lower middle income people now-a-days.
“There are tour operators who operate tourism in Cox’s Bazar, Kuakata and Rangamati at a cost of Tk1600 to Tk 1800. This will be affordable to all. We are trying to expand it to make it universal,” he said.
The Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB), the foremost local trade organisation representing the country's tourism industry, is hosting a three-day international fair until February 3 at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center in the capital city. Biman Bangladesh Airlines Limited, the national flag carrier, is proudly serving as the title sponsor of this event titled ‘12th Biman Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair 2024.
On Tuesday, January 30, at a press conference held at the Hotel Intercontinental in the capital city, Anwar Hossain, Director (Trade and Fair) of TOAB, provided this information. The event was chaired by Shiblul Azam Qureshi, President of TOAB and a member of the governing body of the Bangladesh Tourism Board.
During the event, it was announced that the fair will operate from 10 am to 8 pm daily. The entrance fee to the fair is Tk 30, but students and freedom fighters will have free access to the fairgrounds.
Emphasising the significance and thorough planning behind the fair, Anwar Hossain remarked that concerted efforts have been made to ensure that this year's event surpasses the previous year in terms of attractiveness and grandeur. He highlighted that the fair enjoys full support from key stakeholders including the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, Bangladesh Tourism Board, Bangladesh Tourist Police, and FBCCI (Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry).
Anwar Hossain further mentioned that national tourism organisations and tourism associations from various countries have already confirmed their participation, underscoring the international appeal of the fair. Additionally, tour operators and travel agents from countries such as India, Nepal, Maldives, Singapore, Vietnam, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey are actively taking part in the event.
He highlighted the diverse array of participants, including international and domestic airlines, tourism boards, travel agencies, tour operators, hotels, resorts, cruise liners, and hospitals, all contributing to the vibrant exhibition as exhibitors.
The Director of TOAB mentioned that the fair will boast a total of 146 stalls spread across 12 pavilions within 3 halls, offering a comprehensive showcase of the tourism industry's offerings. In addition to the main exhibitions, the fair will feature various side events including B2B sessions, seminars, and round table discussions, aimed at fostering networking and knowledge exchange among industry professionals.
Moreover, to enrich the visitor experience, cultural events and documentaries highlighting the country's diverse tourist destinations will be screened daily. Exciting raffle draws and prizes will also be part of the fair, adding an element of fun and engagement for attendees.
During the event, Shiblul Azam Qureshi, President of TOAB, expressed that TOAB stands as the cornerstone of the tourism industry in Bangladesh. He emphasised that BTTF (Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair) is the country's premier tourism event, showcasing the vibrancy and potential of the sector.
Highlighting the overarching goal of the fair, Qureshi emphasised that its main objective is to foster awareness about tourism and promote its sustainable development.
He also said, “We hope that this year's tourism fair will create great enthusiasm and excitement among businessmen, domestic and foreign tourists and all those related to the tourism industry. This fair will expand the tourism industry of Bangladesh and play an important role in the country's economy.”
Messenger/Alamin
