The Travel and Tourism Development Centre (TTDC) was formally launched today, 8 August, at the Hotel InterContinental, Dhaka, as a new national platform dedicated to the sustainable growth of the country’s tourism, hospitality, and aviation industries.

Speaking as the Chief Guest, Afroza Khanam Rita, MP, Minister for Civil Aviation & Tourism, stated that while tourism currently contributes nearly 3% to the national GDP—approximately US$10 billion—the sector's full potential remains "unclaimed".

She noted that the industry already supports over 2 million jobs across more than 30 districts but urged the private sector to lead the way in turning visits into lasting memories. The Minister further announced that the government has formed a National Tourism Council with a target to lift the sector's GDP contribution to 6 or 7% in the coming years.

Kazi Wahidul Alam, President of TTDC, introduced the organisation as an independent, non-political knowledge think tank designed to support modernisation through research and policy advocacy.

He emphasised that the modern travel ecosystem relies on four interconnected pillars—travel, tourism, aviation, and hospitality—and that the success of one depends on the strength of the others. Alam stated that the TTDC’s vision is to help position Bangladesh as a globally respected and competitive destination.

Nasser Rahman, MP, Chairman of the Launching Committee, characterised the establishment of the TTDC as a vital step toward creating a structured platform for government and industry stakeholders to address challenges together.

He observed that while the hospitality and aviation sectors in Bangladesh have made progress, the travel and tourism sector continues to lag behind its regional peers. Rahman underscored the need for professional experience and private sector expertise in advising the government on sectoral development.

A high-level panel discussion followed, featuring Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA); Dr. Khondaker Golam Moazzem, Research Director at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD); Ahmed Yusuf Walid, President of Galaxy Group; and Ashwani Nayar, Area General Manager for IHG South West Asia and Cluster GM of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Airport.

The speakers emphasised the need for coordinated policy, infrastructure development, and improved services to create a stronger tourism ecosystem.

The ceremony began with a welcome address by Shahid Hamid FIH and was officially concluded with a formal cake-cutting ceremony. The TTDC is now expected to serve as a hub for policy dialogue, knowledge sharing, and international positioning for Bangladesh's tourism economy.