Millat urges UK investment in Bangladesh’s tourism

Senior Reporter | Published: Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Millat urges UK investment in Bangladesh’s tourism

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat today invited British investors to invest in Bangladesh’s tourism and hospitality sector, pledging a favourable and secure investment environment.

Speaking at a reception on UK investment in Bangladesh’s tourism sector at the British High Commissioner’s residence in Baridhara, the minister said the government was working to turn the country’s diverse attractions into a sustainable, internationally competitive industry.

From the Sundarbans and Cox’s Bazar to the hills and lakes of Chattogram and the tea gardens of Sylhet, Bangladesh has much to offer visitors, he said. Its tourism potential also extends to regions whose history, culture and natural beauty remain less widely known.

Millat said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s government was seeking to attract foreign direct investment and expand opportunities for private investors as part of its efforts to diversify the economy and create jobs.

“I urge UK investors to come to Bangladesh and invest in our tourism and hospitality sector,” he said. “We welcome your investment and are committed to ensuring a favourable, safe and promising investment environment.”

The minister also linked tourism growth to improved air connectivity, saying the government was working towards a sustainable and balanced fleet of Boeing and Airbus aircraft for Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

On air cargo, he sought the British High Commission’s support in addressing restrictions arising from the European Union’s classification of cargo and mail from Bangladesh as high risk since June 2017.

Millat said Osmani International Airport scored 98% and Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport 94% in assessments by the UK Department for Transport on July 17, 2026. Bangladesh was continuing to address the EU’s concerns and hoped the restrictions would be withdrawn soon, he added.

Calling the UK a longstanding friend of Bangladesh, the minister expressed confidence that bilateral ties would grow stronger under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership.

Representatives from Britain, Germany, France, Spain and the European Union attended the reception, alongside senior officials from the Bangladesh Tourism Board, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation and Biman Bangladesh Airlines.