Tourism to 7% of GDP: what Bangladesh's new target would take
The government wants tourism's share of the economy to more than double. A look at where the sector stands, what is being built to measure it, and the gaps to close.
Bangladesh wants tourism to count for far more in its economy. At a press conference in September, Fahmida Akhtar, Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, set out a goal to raise tourism's share of GDP from the current 2–3% to 7%, which the ministry described as more than doubling the sector's contribution. No deadline was given.
Where the sector stands
Estimates differ depending on who measures and how.
| Measure | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Tourism share of GDP (official view) | 2–3% | Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Sept 2026 |
| Travel & tourism contribution, 2023 | BDT 1.02 trillion (about USD 9.5 bn), up 10.6% | WTTC, via The Bangladesh Monitor |
| Domestic visitor spending, 2024 (estimate) | BDT 910.7 billion | WTTC, via The Bangladesh Monitor |
| Tourism jobs, 2024 (estimate) | 2.18 million | WTTC, via The Bangladesh Monitor |
| Households taking an overnight trip in a year | 64% | BBS Tourism Satellite Account, via The Daily Star (2021) |
The picture is consistent on one point: domestic travellers drive the sector. Spending by Bangladeshis travelling at home dwarfs foreign arrivals.
Measuring it properly first
The ministry says a tourism satellite account is being developed to assess the sector's real contribution, covering employment, domestic and foreign visitor numbers, inbound and outbound travel and preferred destinations. The National Tourism Master Plan is also being updated, with completion expected by December.
Without reliable numbers, a 7% target is hard to track. A credible satellite account, published regularly, would be the most useful early step for investors and operators alike.
What else is planned
- Promotion through foreign diplomats, international journalists, bloggers and influencers, and overseas tourism fairs
- Training for tourism workers and immigration police
- The first Bangladesh Tourism Award, presented in 13 categories during the World Tourism Day programme
What it would take
In our view, doubling tourism's share is not only a marketing task. It will also depend on transport to key destinations, access rules announced early enough for operators and travellers to plan around, safety in remote areas, and more quality accommodation beyond the established hubs. Our Industry Desk will follow the master plan and the satellite account as they are published, and we want to hear from operators: write to us at hello@bangladeshtraveller.com.
FAQ
What is Bangladesh's tourism GDP target?
To raise tourism's share of GDP from the current 2–3% to 7%, announced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism in September 2026. No deadline was given.
How much does tourism contribute to Bangladesh's economy?
The World Travel & Tourism Council estimated travel and tourism contributed BDT 1.02 trillion (about USD 9.5 billion) in 2023. Official estimates put tourism at 2–3% of GDP.
Sources
- Bangladesh targets 7pc tourism contribution to GDP, UNB, 26 September 2026
- Tourism allocated less budget despite increased contribution in GDP, The Bangladesh Monitor (WTTC Economic Impact Report figures)
- Tourism's share 3.02% in GDP, The Daily Star, 2021 (BBS Tourism Satellite Account)
Also available in Bangla: জিডিপিতে পর্যটনের ভাগ ৭ শতাংশ: লক্ষ্য পূরণে যা লাগবে
