Bandarban generates tourism business worth TK 1,000 crore annually, yet the sector remains deprived of adequate government support, business leaders have revealed.

Bandarban Chamber Executive Member Jasim Uddin raised the concern at a business dialogue organised by Chattogram Divisional Business Forum on Monday.

He emphasised that despite generating such substantial revenue, tourism infrastructure and facilities in the hill district remain severely underdeveloped.

Tourism sector's struggle reflects broader economic challenges facing Bangladesh's industry and commerce sectors, speakers said at the event. Business leaders warned that multiple problems and bureaucratic harassment have created a severe downturn, slowing the country's economic momentum.

Rangamati Chamber President Md Mamunur Rashid highlighted similar problems in hill districts, saying businesspeople cannot secure bank loans and are suffering badly.

He called for establishing Export Processing Zones in three hill districts to create employment opportunities for youths and urged operation of Thegamukh land port in Barkal.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, speaking as chief guest, said his party has prepared an integrated plan to remove obstacles hindering economic growth.

He expressed hope that open discussions between politicians and business communities would help identify and solve critical problems.