The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) suggested that the government introduce on-arrival visas and e-visas as well as one-stop services (OSS) for foreign tourists with a view to giving a boost to the country's tourism sector.
The apex trade-body made the call at the fourth meeting of its Standing Committee on Tourism Development (Inbound, Outbound, Domestic, and Civil Aviation) on Tuesday.
Attending the meeting as the chief guest, FBCCI President Md. Jashim Uddin said the tourism industry of Bangladesh is very important and has potentials.
"A few days ago, HSBC projected that Bangladesh will become the ninth largest consumer market in the world by 2030. Our economy is growing, and the quality of life is improving. As a result, the tourism industry has now become more important."
He said the Prime Minister has given special importance to the tourism sector. Various infrastructural developments are going on in Cox's Bazar.
The Padma Bridge has opened new windows for the tourism industry. After its inauguration, the number of tourists in the south and south-western parts of the country has increased significantly.
The FBCCI president also mentioned that the chamber will focus on the potential sectors of the country in the upcoming Bangladesh Business Summit, going to be held in March on the occasion of the FBCCI's 50th anniversary. The tourism sector will be one of these sectors.
He added that the FBCCI will always support all positive initiatives in development of the tourism sector.
FBCCI Vice President Md. Amin Helaly said apart from attracting foreigners to Bangladesh, it is also a big market for the country's large population.
He said to ensure discipline and coordination in this potential sector, active participation of the government agencies and the private sector, including the associations concerned, is essential.
M G R Nasir Majumder, Director-in-Charge of the FBCCI Standing Committee, said tourism is always one of the priority sectors to the Prime Minister.
FBCCI Director Syed Moazzam Hossain, co-chairmen and all members of the standing committee along with Deputy Secretary of Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism Sanjida Sharmeen were also present in the meeting.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com