Founded in 1992, the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) is the apex trade body representing the country's tour operators and tourism businesses.

TOAB members will head to the polls on June 16 next to elect a new executive committee for the 2026–2028 term. The contest pits the incumbent Conscious-Reliance Forum against the opposition Agrogamee Okkyiojot (Advance United Alliance)  in a closely watched race that will shape the association's direction over the next two years.

Ahead of the election, Aviation Express spoke with the two presidential candidates to understand their priorities, visions and commitments for TOAB and Bangladesh's tourism industry.

The following profiles present the candidates' backgrounds, key focus areas and election pledges in their own words.

About Mohammad Hanif

A tourism and aviation professional with more than 30 years of industry experience. He is Proprietor of Nirjhor Tours & Travels, an IATA-accredited agency serving multinational corporations, NGOs and international clients. He is widely recognized for his expertise in travel management, business development and industry leadership.

About Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon)

Tourism entrepreneur, business leader and current Director of TOAB (Trade and Fair). He serves as CEO of Innoglobe Travel & Tours Ltd., Tour Planners Ltd. and several other tourism-related enterprises. He has extensive experience in tourism development, corporate management, international relations and industry advocacy.

Why TOAB presidency?

Mohammad Hanif: The tourism industry is at a critical stage where strong, professional and accountable leadership is needed. I am contesting because I believe TOAB must become more effective in protecting members' interests, strengthening institutional capacity and creating a more supportive business environment. Our panel is committed to delivering practical solutions and measurable results that address the real challenges faced by tourism businesses.

Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon): Tourism has been my passion and profession for many years. Through my work with TOAB and various tourism organizations, I have witnessed both the enormous potential of our industry and the challenges our members face daily. I believe TOAB can play a much stronger role in supporting its members while helping Bangladesh emerge as a leading tourism destination. That is why I am seeking the trust and support of TOAB members.

Biggest challenge of Bangladesh's tourism

Mohammad Hanif: Policy and regulatory barriers remain major challenges. Tourism businesses continue to face bureaucratic hurdles, complex taxation issues and operational constraints. We need policy reforms, improved coordination with government agencies and a more predictable business environment to support industry growth and encourage long-term investment in the sector.

Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon): The biggest challenge is the absence of long-term, coordinated planning and effective implementation. Bangladesh possesses extraordinary natural beauty, culture and heritage, but tourism development requires stronger policies, better infrastructure, improved connectivity and a unified national approach. Tourism development cannot happen in isolation and requires collaboration among all stakeholders.

Top priorities

Mohammad Hanif: My focus will be on strengthening TOAB institutionally through a permanent training institute, international-standard training programmes, a research and development unit, and a modern digital knowledge centre. I also want to improve policy advocacy and expand welfare support for members while building a stronger institutional foundation for the association.

Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon): My priorities include implementing a comprehensive National Tourism Master Plan, strengthening Bangladesh's international tourism branding, improving tourism infrastructure, enhancing public-private collaboration and promoting sustainable and community-based tourism initiatives. I also believe new tourism products are important to attracting diverse visitor segments.

TOAB members' benefit

Mohammad Hanif: We will strengthen member services through policy advocacy, healthcare partnerships, an enhanced welfare fund, professional development opportunities and improved access to business networking platforms. Our objective is to provide meaningful support both professionally and personally while helping members grow their businesses.

Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon): I want TOAB to become a stronger support system by creating business networking platforms, providing professional and legal assistance, facilitating training opportunities and ensuring members have a stronger voice in policy discussions. Every member should feel represented and supported.

Attract international tourists

Mohammad Hanif: Bangladesh requires more aggressive international promotion through tourism fairs, roadshows, FAM trips and strategic partnerships with global tourism organisations. Increasing Bangladesh's visibility abroad will directly benefit both the country and TOAB members while helping attract more international visitors.

Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon): We need stronger destination branding, improved infrastructure, better connectivity and the development of new tourism products. Sustainable tourism, community-based tourism and niche tourism experiences will help attract a wider range of international visitors.

Fair competition

Mohammad Hanif: A fair business environment requires transparent regulations, fair licensing practices and reduced bureaucratic barriers. TOAB must continue advocating for policies that allow all members to compete on a level playing field and operate in a more predictable business environment.

Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon): Healthy competition is essential, but destructive competition hurts the industry. TOAB should promote professionalism, fair pricing practices and create mechanisms through which members can raise concerns and receive support. A united industry is always stronger than a divided one.

Young entrepreneurs' role

Mohammad Hanif: Young entrepreneurs are essential to the industry's future. Through training programmes, knowledge-sharing platforms and capacity-building initiatives, TOAB can help equip the next generation with the skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving global tourism market.

Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon): Young entrepreneurs bring innovation, technology and fresh ideas. TOAB should invest more in training, mentorship and opportunities that allow emerging entrepreneurs to grow alongside experienced industry leaders and contribute to the future of the tourism industry.

Long-term vision

Mohammad Hanif: My vision is to build a modern, professional and member-focused TOAB that serves as a powerful advocate for the tourism industry. Through transparency, accountability and strategic leadership, I want TOAB to become a stronger institution capable of driving sustainable tourism growth nationwide.

Dr. Md. Taslim Amin (Shovon): My vision is a stronger and more united tourism industry that contributes significantly to the national economy while creating opportunities for businesses and local communities. I want TOAB to be recognised as a trusted, transparent and influential organisation that helps shape the future of tourism in Bangladesh and supports its members.