Accra:A delegation of Japanese investors has revealed plans to invest an initial $1.2 billion in Bangladesh's tourism and hospitality sector. This move is expected to open new avenues for foreign investment in the country's largely untapped tourism industry.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the announcement was made during a meeting with Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat at the ministry's conference room in the Bangladesh Secretariat. The Japanese investors expressed their strong interest in collaborating with the government to develop tourism infrastructure and hospitality facilities.
Minister Millat welcomed the investment announcement and assured the Japanese delegation of the government's full cooperation in facilitating their proposed investment. He emphasized the government's eagerness to attract foreign investment in tourism through mutually beneficial public-private partnership arrangements.
Highlighting Bangladesh's tourism potential, Millat mentioned the country's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse attractions, such as the Sundarbans, Cox's Bazar, and the tea gardens of Sylhet. He noted that the government is committed to developing the tourism sector by attracting international investment and improving infrastructure and services.
Describing Japan as a longstanding and trusted development partner, Millat recalled its significant contributions to Bangladesh's infrastructure projects. He expressed optimism that Japanese investment and expertise could play a crucial role in unlocking Bangladesh's tourism potential. The minister also instructed that arrangements be made for the Japanese investors to visit prospective tourism destinations to assess investment opportunities.
The Japanese representatives reaffirmed their interest in developing a long-term partnership with Bangladesh in tourism and hospitality. The proposed $1.2 billion investment is expected to move forward through formal proposals to be submitted for government consideration.