Mirpur: North South University (NSU) organised a roundtable discussion titled ‘Policy Development for Global Competitiveness of Cox’s Bazar’ on Wednesday, bringing together policymakers, academics, and industry experts to explore sustainable pathways for transforming Cox’s Bazar into a globally competitive destination.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the event featured Chairman of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation Saima Shahin Sultana as the chief guest, while Dr Khandker Md Nahin Mamu, Chair of the Department of Marketing and International Business, delivered the keynote address with NSU Vice Chancellor Prof Abdul Hannan Chowdhury presiding over the session. The roundtable was aimed at discussing strategies to enhance the global standing of Cox’s Bazar through improved infrastructure and policy coordination.
Among the distinguished discussants were Akhtaruzzaman Khan Kabir, ex-Chairman of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation; Mofizur Rahman, Managing Director of Novoair; Prof AKM Waresul Karim, Dean of the School of Business and Economics at NSU; Prof Santush Kumar Deb of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at Dhaka University; Mohammed Rafiuzzaman, President of Tour Operators’ Association of Bangladesh; Jamiul Ahmed, former Chairman of Tourism Developers Association of Bangladesh and Centre for Tourism Studies (CTS), and Kazi Wahidul Alam, Editor of The Bangladesh Monitor. The session was moderated by Prof Rafiuddin Ahmed, Director of NSU Social Business Center.
In her remarks, Saima Shahin Sultana emphasised the importance of coordinated policy efforts to unlock the full potential of Cox’s Bazar. She stated, ‘Cox’s Bazar has potential, but we are far behind in global competitiveness. We have to improve our infrastructure, ensure quality services, strengthen policy coordination, and focus on sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism practices.’
NSU Vice Chancellor Abdul Hannan stressed the need for realistic assessments and immediate focus on strengthening domestic tourism in Cox’s Bazar while preparing for international standards. He urged the government to develop a comprehensive ecosystem and create space for private sector innovation, also highlighting the potential of the blue economy for sustainable growth.
Delivering the keynote presentation, Nahin Mamun highlighted the importance of strategic positioning and marketing for global competitiveness. He pointed out that a strong, data-driven branding strategy is essential for Cox’s Bazar to stand out in the global tourism market.
Moderator Prof Rafiuddin Ahmed discussed the broader socio-economic impact of tourism development, noting that a well-planned tourism ecosystem can drive inclusive growth, create jobs, and support local communities while preserving environmental balance.
The roundtable discussion was jointly organised by NSU’s Center for Social Impact and Sustainability, NSU Social Business Center, Climate Change and Disaster Resilience Center – NSU, and the Department of Marketing and International Business.