Govt targets 2.19cr tourism jobs by 2040 under mega plan: Minister Afroza

The government has unveiled an ambitious long-term roadmap to transform Bangladesh's tourism and aviation sectors, aiming to generate millions of jobs and strengthen regional connectivity through large-scale infrastructure development and investment incentives.

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam told Parliament today (29 April) that under a proposed "Tourism Mega Plan (2026–2040)", the government aims to attract 5.57 crore tourists and create 2.19 crore jobs by 2040.

She said the initiative is designed to position tourism as a key driver of economic growth, with a structured investment framework and strong emphasis on public-private partnerships (PPP). The plan also includes targeted support for entrepreneurship, particularly women-led enterprises, through low-interest financing and policy facilitation.

The minister said the government is updating the National Tourism Policy in 2025 to improve sustainability and inclusivity, while also expanding access to bank loans and introducing a One-Stop Service (OSS) system for both investors and tourists.

According to official data presented in Parliament, the tourism sector currently employs around 51.9 lakh people, a figure projected to rise to 72.8 lakh by 2030. Training programmes have also been expanded to build skilled manpower, including tour operators, guides, vendors and volunteers.

Afroza Khanam said investment is being prioritised in eco-tourism and green infrastructure, particularly in coastal regions such as Kuakata, alongside efforts to promote community-based tourism to boost rural economies. Special initiatives are also underway to enhance women's participation and support cultural tourism linked to ethnic minority communities.

Separately, the minister announced that the government has launched a comprehensive feasibility study to explore reopening closed and underutilised airports as part of efforts to strengthen domestic air connectivity.

Bangladesh currently has 17 aviation facilities, including three international airports and five operational domestic airports, while several Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) airfields built during World War II remain closed or underused.

The feasibility study will assess the viability of reviving these airports to improve regional air links and stimulate local economic activity. Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology has already been tasked with evaluating the proposed Bogura Airport.

Officials say the broader aviation plan aims to build a nationwide air connectivity network linking divisional and district towns, supporting balanced regional development and improving transport efficiency.

The initiatives are expected to attract private investment, expand tourism infrastructure, and create long-term employment opportunities across multiple sectors.