The government is expected to announce a raft of policy measures soon to boost the local tourism industry keeping provisions of fiscal stimulus and exclusive zones to attract holiday-makers. The finance ministry is now busy preparing a draft package facility on tourism that would involve developing infrastructure in Cox’s Bazar and the districts in Chittagong Hill Tracts while finance minister AMA Muhith would head a cabinet committee on tourism, a senior official said.
The cabinet committee will hold a meeting next week in the finance ministry to okay the draft package, a large content of which has been included from the recommendations made from the ministry of civil aviation and tourism to reframe the outlook of the neglected but potential business sector in the economy, he added.
‘We are at the final stage to redesign the exclusive policies on tourism industry as the ailing tourism sector lacks adequate fiscal and monetary support from the government,’ a top finance official told New Age.
‘Things would get special policy focus to streamline the potential sector,’ he said.
As per the draft package facility, three hilly districts will be announced as exclusive zone for the tourists, while Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Council, Bangladesh Army and civil aviation ministry will act jointly to implement tourism-friendly projects in the respective hilly districts.
Exclusive facilities on touring, accommodations and recreation will be ensured in the exclusive zone to attract both local and foreign tourists, sources said.
All development projects in relation to improving creaky infrastructure from Chittagong to Cox’s Bazar and development needs in the Cox’s Bazar city in particular would be integrated to give the resort an exclusive facelift meant for tourism and holidaying.
Measures would be taken for reduction in tax at source payable by the foreign tourists to tour operators, rationalising the import duties levied on vehicles used for transporting tourists and popularising river cruise ensuring adequate safety and attractions in rivers encircling the capital Dhaka.
Exclusive tourism infrastructure will be built near Jamuna bridge, while separate development package will be announced exclusively for the Sundarbans—the world’s largest mangrove forest, the officials concerned said.
-With New Age input
