Bangladesh opens international tourism fair

DHAKA, Bangladesh (MNTV) — Bangladesh has opened a major international tourism exhibition aimed at revitalizing South Asia’s travel economy and promoting cross-border cooperation among regional tourism industries.

The three-day event, held at the Bangladesh–China Friendship Conference Center in Dhaka, brings together more than 120 organizations from 15 countries, including Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, China, and Turkiye. 

Exhibitors include national tourism boards, airlines, hotels, and tour operators seeking to expand regional routes and partnerships.

Organized by the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh, the fair marks the 13th edition of the country’s largest tourism showcase. Lutfe Siddiqi, special envoy to the chief adviser on international affairs, inaugurated the event, urging greater collaboration between governments and private stakeholders to modernize infrastructure and promote sustainable travel.

The exhibition also features policy discussions, business-to-business sessions, and cultural programs designed to encourage joint ventures and new tourism corridors across South and Southeast Asia. 

Organizers say the fair reflects a growing effort to integrate the region’s tourism markets as part of wider economic recovery plans after the pandemic.

Tourism accounts for nearly 4 percent of Bangladesh’s GDP and supports millions of jobs across transport, hospitality, and services. Officials hope that enhanced connectivity and simplified visa systems will draw more visitors from neighboring countries in the years ahead.

The event will run through Saturday.