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Regional Workshop on Role of Coastal and Marine Tourism on Blue Economy

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 EU-BGD Joint Collaboration on Blue Economy
Maritime Affairs Unit, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, GoB with the support of the
European Union

Regional workshop

Role of Coastal and Marine Tourism on Blue Economy

Development in Bangladesh

Chittagong, 27 August 2017

Recommended citation

M. Shahadat Hossain, Pierre Failler and M. G. Hussain. 2017. Role of Coastal and Marine
Tourism on Blue Economy Development in Bangladesh, organized by Maritime Affairs Unit,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Bangladesh with the support of the European
Union in association with Chittagong Univesity, Chittagong, Bangladesh. 20 pp.

Cover Photo @ Mr. Taufiq Rahman

Group Picture of Participants of Regional Workshop on Role of Coastal and Marine Tourism
on Blue of Economic Development in Bangladesh, Chittagong

2
Table of contents
Presentation of the document..................................................................................................... 4
Acknowledgements ..................................................................................................................... 5
Executive Summary .................................................................................................................... 6
Working ...................................................................................................................................... 7
1. Opening word..................................................................................................................... 7
2. Session 1, Blue Economy Presentations …………………………………………………8
Objectives and scope of the workshop.............................................................................. 8
Connecting People and Nature: Coastal and Marine Ecotourism Opportunities in
Bangladesh ......................................................................................................................... 8
Presentation 1: Perspectives of Tourism Development along the Coast ........................... 9
Presentation 2: Ecotourism and Cruise Tourism Perspectives ........................................ 10
Presentation 3: Experiences in Coastal and Marine Tourism: Silver Discoverer to
Bangladesh ....................................................................................................................... 11
Presentation 4: Planning Issues and Environmental Concerns: how have they been
addressed? ........................................................................................................................ 11
Presentation 5: Major Constraints to Tourism Development .......................................... 12
Presentation 6: Government Current and Future Actions ................................................ 12
Presentation 7: Public Private Partnerships: A Formula for Coastal and Marine
Ecotourism Sector ............................................................................................................ 13
Presentation 8: Public Private Partnerships in Coastal and Marine Tourism Development
.......................................................................................................................................... 13
Open discussion ............................................................................................................... 14
3. Session 2 : BE matrix ....................................................................................................... 14
Discussions ...................................................................................................................... 19
4. Session 3 : synthesis......................................................................................................... 19
Annexe 1: Agenda .................................................................................................................... 20
Annexe 2: List of participants .................................................................................................. 21

3
Presentation of the document
This document presents the summary of the presentations and the main elements of
discussions. It also reports the Blue Economy Matrix focusing coastal tourism and cruise
tourism that has been elaborated by all participants. The agenda of the workshop and the list
of participants are given in the annexes.

4
Acknowledgements
This workshop including drafting and editing this proceeding has been made possible by
financial support from the European Union through EU-BGD Joint Collaboration on Blue
Economy project implemented by the Maritime Affairs Unit, Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and AECOM, Spain.
Sincere thanks are due to the participants from different institutions/departments, especially
the resource persons for their active participation, constructive comments and suggestions
that provided valuable insights in understanding the Role of Coastal and Marine Tourism on
Blue Economy Development in Bangladesh EU-BGD Blue Economy Expert Mission
express their sincere thanks to Professor Shahadat Hossain, Institute of Marine Sciences and
Fisheries (IMSF), University of Chittagong, for his involvement as Lead Facilitator to
organize nicely this workshop in Chittagong, Bangladesh. Special thanks to the other faculty
members of the Institute of Marine Sciences and Fisheries (IMSF) of the University of
Chittagong for selecting and communicating with the resource persons. Mr Jewel Das of
IMSF, who recorded the minutes of workshop activities are gratefully acknowledged.

5
Executive Summary
Regional workshop on “Role of Coastal and Marine Tourism on Blue Economic Development
in Bangladesh” was held at Chittagong on 27 August 2017 under the financial support from
the European Union through EU-BGD Joint Collaboration on Blue Economy mission. The
objective is to discuss the pathway for the development of coastal and marine tourism in
Bangladesh with an emphasis on opportunities, constraints and the coordination mechanism
from all aspects and dimensions related to coastal and marine tourism. It was emphasized that
blue economy is the utilization of ocean resources for increasing food security, improving
nutrition and health, alleviating poverty, creating jobs, generating alternative energy, lifting
seaborne trade and industrial profiles while protecting ecosystem health and biodiversity. A
total of 24 participants from academia, government departments, industry, and entrepreneures
have participated in the workshop and contributed from professional perspective.

The fundamental aspects of blue economy development in Bangladesh have discussed, of

which coastal and marine tourism is important. Thus, presentations on various dimensions of
the coastal and marine tourism will contribute to share information and knowledge on
numerous current and planned initiatives of GoB. The contribution of tourism in national
economy during 2001-2010 was less than 1% GDP whereas, global coastal tourism
accounted for 5% of the global GDP and thus Bangladesh has huge potentials in developing
coastal and marine tourism. In this connection, develop networks from hills to ocean is
important to address ecosystems, economy and society that creates alternative income
generating options to the coastal communities. Moreover, Bay of Bengal cruise, eco-diving,
surfing, concerts, recreational fishing, recreational boating, mangrove ecotourism, tour to
Swatch of No Ground, evening live concerts, and floating hotels are the suggestive options
for sustainable coastal and marine tourism development in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh has huge potentiality to attract and develop both national and foreign tourists
involving a mixture of economy class and addressing the SDGs. Similarly, the country has a
mixture of destinations for ecotourism, archeological and historical tourism development.
Thus, necessary measures should be taken to conserve and develop aquatic and terrestrial
ecosystems e.g. mangrove, coral reef, tidal wetland, sea grass bed, barrier island, estuary and
closed water body. Likewise, Bangladesh need to extend quality and efficient Immigration,
Customs and other services to the tourist onboard, that will really contribute in the expansion
of existing tourism industry in the country.

Major threats due to tourism are environmental damage, urbanization, human waste, garbage,
crowding, noise pollution, wildlife disturbance, unfair wages & labor conditions. On the other
hand, benefits of tourism can help alleviate poverty, possible longer term benefits than
hunting, increased demand for learning /experiential holidays, conservation and education.
Major sectors for Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Bangladesh include health, education,
infrastructure development, tourism, ICT and industries. Public sector partners in Bangladesh
include national government, district administration, municipal authorities, local government
bodies, state universities and research organizations; where private sector partners are
commercial for-profit enterprises, development-focused voluntary non-governmental
organizations (NGOs), cooperative societies, community-based organizations (CBOs),
religious organizations, professional organizations, trade unions, research and academic
institutions and households. PPPs are ventures that give value to the citizen, public and the
private sectors by hedging the risks. It can be a crucial instrument to grow our coastal tourism
sector substantially.

6
Working Sessions
The workshop was held on the 27th of August 2017 in Chittagong, Bangladesh. It has
consisted of one morning session of presentations on role of coastal and marine tourism on
blue economy development topics and one afternoon session on the BE matrix in restricted
groups. A synthesis session has closed the workshop.

Working session is on running

1. Opening word
Gulam Hussain, Fisheries and Aquaculture Expert, EU-BGD Blue Economy in Bangladesh
Dr. M. Gulam Hussain, Fisheries and Aquaculture Expert, EU-BGD Joint Collaboration on
Blue Economy in Bangladesh welcomed the participants of the workshop and acknowledged
the European Union and MOFA for arranging this workshop. He cordially recognized the
productive inputs of the resource persons in the previous workshop at Chittagong.
Additionally, he focused on fundamental aspects of blue economy development in
Bangladesh and mentioned 26 basic sectors with 12 major themes. Among them, marine
tourism is important one administered by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. He
emphasized on the maritime disputes settlement with neighbouring countries. Dr. Hussain
thanked all the thematic speakers and participants for attending this impertant workshop,
specially thanked Prof. Shahadat Hossain and other senior facultly members of Institute of
Marine Sciences and Fisheries (IMSF), University of Chittagong for facilitating to organize
the workshop in Chittagong, Bangladesh.

7
2. Session 1: Workshop Presentations

Objectives and scope of the workshop

Pierre Failler, Economist and Team Leader, EU-BGD Blue Economy in Bangladesh
Dr. Pierre Failler, Econosmist and Team Leader, EU-BGD Joint Collaoration on Blue
Economy in Bagladesh, briefly presented the objective of the workshop and discussed the
pathway of coastal and marine tourism for the Blue Economy implementation in Bangladesh
with an emphasis on opportunities, constraints and the coordination mechanism to develop. In
that regards, presentations on various dimensions of the coastal and marine tourism will
contribute to share information and knowledge on numerous current and planned initiatives.
This will help to develop a common vision for BE development in Bangladesh. It will also
provide support for the identification of the positive and negative externalities resulting from
the development of various activities and, therefore, highlight the need for coordination and
marine spatial planning.

Connecting People and Nature: Coastal and Marine Ecotourism Opportunities in

Bangladesh
M. Shahadat Hossain, Professor, Institute of Marine Sciences and Fisheries, University of
Chittagong, Bangladesh

The Lead Facilitator of the workshop Professor Dr M Shahadat

Hossain from the Institute of Marine Sciences and Fisheries (IMSF) of the University of
Chittagong welcomed the EU-BGD mission to the port city and commercial capital of
Bangladesh, to discuss this blue economy issue. Professor Hossain explained coastal and
marine ecotourism and mentioned essential criteria and features. Water transport facilities
should be launched in Bangladesh, he added. Potential places are identified with tentative
routes for coastal and marine tourism development. Networks need to be established from
hills to ocean addressing ecosystems, economy and society in the days to come. Moreover,
establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) can promote biodiversity conservation and
encourage ecotourism development by saving ?? the nature (fish, coral, bird, etc.), but not
hunting. Furthermore, the goods and services of mangrove forest are remarkable including
role as natural barrier against natural disasters (i.e. tropical cyclone, tidal surges). Professor
Hossain addressed alternative income generating activities to the coastal communities
through ecotourism initiatives. Moreover, economic return from ecotourism may be 3-4%
GDP. But integration (bottom-up and top-down approaches) among different stakeholders
and sectors is essential. Above all, mission, vision, action and satisfaction depends on
coordinated efforts of concerned stakeholders.

8
 Figure 1. Potential routes for coastal and marine ecotourism development in Bangladesh

Presentation 1: Perspectives of Tourism Development along the Coast

Sayedur R Chowdhury, Professor, Institute of Marine Sciences and Fisheries, University of
Chittagong, Bangladesh

Different components and status of coastal and marine tourism

in Bangladesh are focused by Professor Chowdhury. He nicely expained the paradigm shift of
tourism development. Relevant economy size in relation to overseas is addressed. Exploring
new places and new entertainment activities in existing tourist places are necessary. Coastal
tourism is based on beach walking, bathing and viewing sunset only, which should be

9
changed with additional diversified options. Professor Chowdhury highlighted top ten
suggestions towards sustainable tourism development in Bangladesh e.g. cruise, diving,
surfing, concerts, camping as evening life, floating hotels, etc.

Presentation 2: Ecotourism and Cruise Tourism Perspectives

M. Nur Nobi, Associate Professor, Department of Economics, University of Chittagong,
Bangladesh
According to the statistics of the Tourism Board of Bangladesh, the contribution of tourism in
national economy is less than 1% of total GDP (about 0.06%) during 2001-2010 whereas,
global coastal tourism accounted for 5% of the global GDP. This is the argument that
Bangladesh has huge potentials in developing coastal and marine tourism. Thus to enhance
the ecotourism in coastal areas, Bangladesh can start the following:

a) Marine Cruise to Swatch of no ground from Chittagong

The southern part of the Bay of Bengal (Swatch of no ground) is abundant with dolphins and
other aquatic animals e.g. whale, shark and turtles. As a result, it could be a leisure trip for
both local and foreign visitors. It will generate jobs in shipping sector, tourism management
sector, and in other service sectors directly and indirectly followed by increasing economic
activities and hence economic development through reduction of poverty. It will also
contribute in sea management and patrolling the territory. People will be more eager in
managing and conserving natural resource like marine system.

b) Cruise from Chittagong to Khulna/Sundarban

An initiative to develop a cruise from Chittagong to Khulna/Sundarban will promote tourism
both in Sundarban; the largest mangrove in the world, and in the Bay of Bengal. This cruise
can also serves as passenger vassal that will reduce the pressure on roads and high way, save
time and increase economic activity through the shipping line. These cruises will increase
demand for formal service providers and skilled personnel.

c) Expansion of coastal tourism (safe and new tourist spots in the coast line)
Though we have longest-unbroken sea beach but we cannot use the whole coastal areas for
tourism. Conducting scientific survey, government can declare new and safe tourist spots in
the coast line. This one will involve local people for various service sectors reducing their
dependency on nature and also increasing employment opportunity. It will enhance coastal
management as it is mandatory for coastal tourism. It will also help sustainable marine
fishing as some people will quit fishing because of opportunities in tourism sector.

d) Exclusive tourist zones in the coastal areas for foreigners

To attract the foreign tourists (hence foreign earnings), government can declare some areas
are exclusively for foreign visitors. Declaration of exclusive spot will increase the foreign
visitors and earnings of this sector. It will finally create jobs for both skilled and unskilled
workers.

How will the projects contribute the local economy?

For sure the under taken projects on marine and coastal tourism will contribute the local
economy. At first, it will Increase the government revenue earnings. Secondly, it will reduce
the dependency of the local people on marine resources and mangrove forest through creating
job opportunities. Thirdly, it will increase the standard of living in the coastal areas. Fourthly,
10
it will help building awareness among the visitors for sustainable marine resource
management. Finally, it will contribute to economic development of Bangladesh.

Presentation 3: Experiences in Coastal and Marine Tourism: Silver Discoverer to

Bangladesh
Mr. Taufiq Rahman, Chief Executive, Journey Plus, Gulshan-1, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Mr. Taufiq Rahman presenting and explaining his thematic presentaion

Mr. Taufiq Rahman stated that Cruise Tourism can play an important role in boosting tourism
sector that can directly impact of a country`s blue economic development. Bangladesh poised
to enter global ocean cruise map, ushers in new era in tourism industry. Cruise tourism acts as
another valuable travel proposition bringing the people of the world closer together through
connection of wishes and waterways. Bangladesh was the only country of the region- which
this far remained out of cruise map. Luxury expedition cruise specialist Silversea made
history with the first-ever cruise ship call to Bangladesh territory on 22 February 2017- when
Silver Discoverer visited Maheshkhali island and largest mangrove forest Sundarbans.

If Bangladesh can extend quality and efficient Immigration, Customs and other services to
the tourist onboard, that will be good for the expansion of existing tourism industry of
Bangladesh and enhance the Marine Tourism opportunities of the country.

Presentation 4: Planning Issues and Environmental Concerns: how have they been
addressed?
Md. Main Uddin, Assistant Professor, Institute of Forestry and Environment Sciences,
University of Chittagong, Bangladesh
Sustainable coastal and marine tourisms need to be addressed in connection to ICZM Plan,
Coastal Zone Policy 2005 and Coastal Development Strategy 2006. Some important issues in
connection to these plan and policies should be considered while considering development. If
11
not, the tourism industry might seriously be affected. These issues are: (i) Necessary
measures should be taken to conserve and develop aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems e.g.
mangrove, coral reef, tidal wetland, sea grass bed, barrier island, estuary and closed water
body; (ii) Implementation of laws for the protection of special areas will be ensured for
environmental balance.
Setting the appropriate legislative framework is fundamental to effective implementation of
the coastal zone policy and the coastal/ marine tourism. The laws of Bangladesh applicable to
coastal zone and maritime territory should be considered before tourism development. The
enforcement of existing legal coverage is a key issue in sustainable coastal management in
connection to tourism. This policy will be given effect, if needed, through revision,
modification of existing laws, rules and regulations specifying provisions of the coastal zone
policy to facilitate its implementation (i) identifying areas of conflict and contradiction
among and within the laws; (ii) finding out the solutions of conflicts (iii) preparing a list of
rules/laws which are conflicting with existing policies along with suggesting necessary
amendments to harmonize them; and (iv) reviewing the necessity of an umbrella legislation
for the coastal zone and coastal tourism.
For sustainable coastal and marine tourism development with the acceleration of blue
economy concept, first of all, we need to ensure Integrated Coastal Zone Management
(ICZM) plan by involving all relevant departments or ministries. Furthermore, we need to
ensure environmental information, education and awareness. Besides, conducting detailed
and effective study on environment before taking and implementing any development project
in coastal areas might be a good option for sustainable coastal and marine tourism.

Presentation 5: Major Constraints to Tourism Development

M. Edris Alam, Associate Professor, Department of Geography and Environmental Studies,
University of Chittagong, Bangladesh
Tourism is the temporary movement of people to destinations outside their normal places of
work and residence, the activities undertaken during their stay in those destinations and the
facilities created to care to their need. Bangladesh has huge potentiality to develop both
national and foreign tourists involving a mixture of economy class and addressing the SDGs.
Bangladesh has a mixture of destinations for ecotourism, archeological and historical tourism
development. Major coastal sites include Cox’s Bazar beach and Kuakata beach. Moreover,
existing beaches in Chittagong are Neval beach, Patenga beach, Halishahar beach and Parki
beach; where Sonadia, St. Martin's and Nijhum Deep are established tourist destinations since
long time. Integration among research and development agencies is essential. Lessons learned
from previous tourism related development works need to address in future initaitives.
Information centres across major cities and websites must be regularly updated.
Professionalism development from both public and private sectors is the fundamental key. In
parallel, promotional activities by overseas missions are important.

Presentation 6: Government Current and Future Actions

Mr. Mizanur Rahman, Manager, Hotel Shaikat, Chittagong, Bangladesh
Utilization of Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf marine drive (continuous 80 km) as means of coastal
recreation can be an important option. Assess possibility to turn into a racing track. Designate
areas and introduce hand gliding at Cox’s Bazar, Teknaf, Himchari and Moheshkhali Island.

12
Arrangement of Beach Volley Ball Tournament (yearly or seasonally) at Cox’s Bazar can
promote tourism activities. Moreover, arranging Kite Flying festival during winter months
and Bangla newyear holiday period at Cox’s Bazar may contribute coastal tourim
development. Guided Walking or Trekking along selected tourist spots are needed. Wild life
and bird watching in Sonadia and Nijhum Dwip can be arranged. Sun bathing sites at St.
Martin’s Island and Teknaf beach can be demarcated. River cruise for 3-5 days including
visiting coastal islands can promote natural and educational tourism. Potential sites may
demarcate for scuba diving and snorkeling in St. Martin’s Island and the coast of Teknaf.
Wild elephant watching at Hong Hill of Teknaf may be an amazing option. Whaling and
dolphin watching in Bay of Bengal (i.e. Swatch of no Ground) and the Sundarbans can be
someone’s lifetime dream. Swimming from Shah Porir Deep (tip of Teknaf) to St. Martin’s
Island (12.5 km) can be a chance of advanture. Similarly, introduce water sports like water
skiing, wind surfing and kayaking are additional options.

Presentation 7: Public Private Partnerships: A Formula for Coastal and Marine

Ecotourism Sector
Md. Shamsuddoha, Department of Marketing, University of Chittagong, Bangladesh
Ecotourism is environmentally responsible travel and visitation to relatively undisturbed
natural areas, in order to enjoy, study and appreciate nature, that promotes conservation, has
low visitor impact, and provides for beneficially active socio-economic involvement of local
populations. Major threats are environmental damage, urbanization, human waste, garbage,
crowding, noise pollution, wildlife disturbance, unfair wages & labor conditions. On the other
hand, benefits of tourism can help alleviate poverty, possible longer term benefits than
hunting, increased demand for learning /experiential holidays, conservation and education.
Major sectors for Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Bangladesh include health, education,
infrastructure development, tourism, ICT and industries. Public sector partners include
national government, district administration, municipal authorities, local government bodies,
state universities and research organizations; where private sector partners are commercial
for-profit enterprises, development-focused voluntary non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), cooperative societies, community-based organizations (CBOs), religious
organizations, professional organizations, trade unions, research and academic institutions
and households. Branding of spots and facilities can be the main component in tourism
development. Privatization of some of the natural sites e.g. beaches, islands, hills, waterways
can promote tourism. Accessible to easy services e.g. online booking to ensure
accommodation and logistics for travelers is necessary. Moreover, corporate social
responsibilities (CSR) engagement in tourism development need to include.

Presentation 8: Public Private Partnerships in Coastal and Marine Tourism

Development
Mr. Tashin Lutfur, Executive Director, Niribili Group, Cox's Bazar
The world tourism industry has been on the rise for many years. According to the World
Travel & Tourism Council, the total contribution of tourism to our national GDP in 2016 was
BDT 840.2 billion (or 84,000 crores) and is forecasted to rise to BDT 1,783.0 billion (or 1
lakh 78,000 crores) (WTTC 2017). In this fast-growing sector, heavy investment is required
to meet the demand. Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) are ventures that give value to the
citizen, public and the private sectors by hedging the risks. It can be a crucial instrument to
grow our coastal tourism sector substantially. If private entrepreneurs follow the guide lines,

13
given by the government, to access the PPP funding; I believe our exciting tourism sector will
grow exponentially.

Open discussion

Talking of participants at open discussion

 Prof. Hussain Kabir: Ecotourism means ecology not economics, do not disturb
environment if you develop tourism, safety and security issues should be ensured,
emphasize on local inhabitants or tourists, bureaucratic diplomacy should be checked
in tourism sector, hospitalities and services from secretariat level should be ensured.
 Prof. Dr. Sheikh Aftab Uddin: Branding, souvenir and other gift items and online
tourism and shopping can enhance the business, introducing innovative beach
activities for tourism purposes.
 Mr. Jewel Das: Backwater boat riding introduction, exploring new sites is a challenge
as there is no true example of sustainable management of tourism spots and EIA can
give the answer, sole ownership vs. free access in case of privatization.
 Prof. Sayedur R Chowdhury: Environment based tourism development is a
prerequisite of blue economy, very careful about resource management, adding
marine national park in top ten list he provided.
 Mr. Main Uddin: Taking certificates prior to launch new venture from Tourism
ministry in Bangladesh may be useful.
 Mr. Taufiq Rahman: Need to promote both domestic and international tourists, we
should not compare Bangladesh tourism with big countries like India but we can
compare with Nepal, Myanmar etc.

3. Session 2 : BE matrix
At the beginning of the afternoon session (after lunch and prayer beak) Dr. Piere Failler made
a brief presentation on coastal and marine tourism matrix with a template and asked the
participants to list out potential blue economy activities on a priority basis, find out major
14
opportunities, constraints, gaps, existing and potential conflicts through participatory
discussion among the group members. Prof. Failler raised 2 issues for brainstorming: Coastal
Tourism Development & Cruise Tourism Development. He divided the participants in 2
groups to discuss to find out the answers of the prescribed matrix by Prof. Failler. Group
works continued for 1 hr and 15 mins. Groups came up with some potential recommendations
for the discussed topics and has been presented in front of audiences. The two coastal and
marine tourism matrixes with particulars of the group members are given in the following
tables.

Group discussion in progress

Group 1: Coastal tourism

Group members: Professor M Shahadat Hossain, Dr. M. Gulam Hussain, Professor Hossaien Kabir, Mr.
Tashin Lutfur, Mr. Sourav Saha Joy
Presented by: Professor Sayedur R Chowdhury
Sector Sub- Opportuni Constrai Gaps Externalities Coordination Spatial Actions
sector ties nts and Existing needs planning (priority
and needs order)
potential
conflicts
Market: Business Informatio Artisanal Involvement of Not many 1. SRO
1. Sport fishing
Adventure Tourism
Coastal tourism

Young environ: n: fishers may artisanal fishers places 2. Popularize

generation No N/A not accept may be needed suitable for 3. Logistics
(domestic), constraint the notion at to avoid such
inbound s Knowledg the beginning potential fishing, still
tourists e: conflict/competi MSP might
N/A tion help
Environme Trade
nt/resource issues:
s: N/A Capacities:
Place SW of Training/
St Martin’s Orientatio
Island n needs
suitable for Access
bait fishing resources Regulation
: :
Regulation: Season/b DoF SRO
No existing ad may be
regulation; weather needed to
sport open sport
fishing fishing
licenses
may be
introduced

15
 Market: Business Informatio Conflict: Involvement of Spatial 1. SRO

2. recreational boating
Young environ: n& Sailing routes artisanal fishers, planning 2. Popularize
generation Boat and knowledge may conflict MMO (marine neede to 3. Boat and
supplies : some with artisanal mercantile identify supplies
Environme industry informatio fishing fleet office) safe manufacturing
nt/resource need to n and passages 4. Safety issues
s: St. grow knowledge and routes
Martins need to be
Island and Trade generated
off Cox’s issues: to identify
Bazar Sailing safe areas
shoreline license
may be (like Capacity/t
suitable; driving raining:
there are a license); Boating/b
number of rescue asic
training infrastruc seamanshi
academies ture p
which can mandator
impart Access/re y training
boating/sail source:
ing courses season Regulation
permittin s: Boat &
g seamanshi
p
licensing/p
ermits
Market: Business Informatio Conflict: DoE/Tourism Spatial 1. SRO
3. Diving

Young and environ: n& Potential department planning 2. Diving

healthy No visible knowledge environmenta coordination needed. An certifications
people conflicts : diving l/coral reef artificial
already destruction/d diving reef
Environme Trade taking egradation may be
nt: Clear issues: place in developed
waters Diving limited to avoid
around St. certificati scope disturbance
Martin’s on s to natural
Island Capacity: coral reefs.
Access/re Diving
source: schools
season needed
permittin
g Regulation
:
Environme
ntal
regulation
should
apply to
diving
practice

16
 Market: Business Informatio Conflict: Several agencies Strict 1. Zoning

4. Evening life
Everyone environ: n& Some evening coordination zoning 2. Regulations
Local knowledge life activities required necessary 3. License
Environme musicals : N/A may be for theatre, 4.
nt/resource bands, socially/cultur concert, PPP/Enterpren
s: Virtually indinenou Capacity/t ally sensitive bar, pub, eurship
non- s show, raining: and need restaurants, development
existent local Hospitality extra care to etc.
brewery, training, operate
Regulation: fresh event
appropriate food and managem
regulations sea food ent
needed cuisine training,
entertain
Trade ment
issues: industry
Licensing, training
strict
zoning Regulation
:A
multitude
of
regulation
would be
necessary
to
manage,
and
regulate
the
activities

Market: Business Informatio Conflict: MoWR, Tourism Zoning 1. Zoning

5. Floating hotel

Families/ environ: n& Water use department, required 2. Regulations

Honeymoo water knowledge conflict may local 3. License
ners/Partie body can : N/A arise if not government/ad 4.
s be properly ministration, law PPP/Enterpren
identified Capacity/t planned enforcement eurship
Environme raining: coordination development
nt: Calm Trade Hospitality required
waterbodie issues: training
s and Licensing,
channel zoning Regulation
may be :
identified

Regulation:
appropriate
regulations
needed
6. Surfing

17
Group 2: Cruise Tourism Development
Group members: Professor Dr. Sheikh Aftab Uddin, Mr. Mizanur Rahman, Mr. Taufiq Rahman, Mr. Imrul Hasan, Mr.
Robiul Kauser, Mr. Zahid Hasan
Presented by: Professor Dr. Sheikh Aftab Uddin
Sector Sub- Opportunities Constraints Gaps Externalities Coordinati Spatial Actions
sector and Existing on needs planning (priority
and needs order)
potential
conflicts
1. Bay Market Business Information a. Absence a. a. 1.Coordi
Cruise Tourism Development

Cruise a. Domestic environment a. Country of Interminis Destination nation/m

2. River voyagers a.Food update confidence terial zoning with onitoring
cruise b. Inbound (senior safety b.Website, among the cooperati special cell
3. citizens, young b. Unfriendly social media stakeholders on interest 2.Ease of
Offshore couple, cruise Immigration etc. and b. friendly cruise immigrat
Island ship law c. Weather government immigrati b. ion
cruise experience) c. Complex d. bodies on policy Recreation 3.Ease of
4. Deep c. New business\ customs b.Rigid for the al Customs
sea formalities Knowledge implementat tourist equipment/
cruise Environment/reso d. a.Unavailable ion of c. Local apparatus 4. Strict
urces inadequate tide table existing laws communit should be impleme
a. Establish internet chart c.local y support placed ntation
destination ( St. facilities b.swimming community towards properly of
Martin’s Island, e. Passenger activity non- tourist c. Tourist existing
Moheshkhali security and c.Non cooperation carrying laws on
island, Nijup safety biodegradable d.interminist capacity in security
dwip, f. Lack of materials erial non- each issues
Sundarban etc.) money throw into cooperation. destination
b. Wild life, exchange sea/forest/cre
Forest, Marine facilities eks/islands/ch
animals and h. sanitation annels
birds, Fisheries, issues
coral reefs, Bait (toilet/wash Capacities
fishing, etc.) a.Inadequate
Indigenous safety
peoples Trade issues equipment/m
lifestyle, local a. Absence easures(life
cuisine, local of one stop jacket/raft,
festival, service GPRS etc.)
artisanal b.lack of b.onboard
handicrafts, inter- security
local home stay ministerial/d system
epartmental c. lack of
Regulation co- physicians/me
a. Existing laws & ordination dicine
regulations c.Bureaucrat d.Standby
(forest/tourism ic complexity resque team
/fisheries/ d. No co- e.fire safety
shipping/ ordination
navigation) between Regulation
b. New different a.lack of
security proper
agencies surveillance
e. Licence b.existing
laws/rules
Access upgrade/amm
resources endement/
a. lack of
informatio
n on
destinatio
n/product

18
Discussions
The group members actively participated in the discussion and contributed from their
professional viewpoints. The participants of each group identified the sectors and sub-sectors
with opportunities and constraints. The gaps and conflicts are acknowledged and
unanimously agreed on the necessity of coordination. The required actions/interventions are
recognised and ranked on priority order.
 Coastal Tourism Development: Sub-sectors are Sport fishing, boating, diving,
surfing, evening live musics and related activities should be launched to boost up
tourism business in Bangladesh.
 Cruise Tourism Development: Sub-sectors are Bay cruise, River cruise, Offshore
cruise and Deep sea cruise

4. Session 3 : synthesis
 Develop new tourism business sectors to foster economic benefit from marine and
coastal resources
 Exclusive zone for foreigners could be initiated
 Some participants claimed to minimize social barrier for the openness of the tourists
in terms of wearing dresses, access to casino, access to bars and evening camp
facilities in Cox’sbazar considering limit of the societal system
 Dr.. Failler raised issue regarding ship-breaking industry as tourist spot, but it is not
allowed by the owners to visit by out-siders
 Sound-proof infrastructure (e.g. hotel) are not available in Bangladesh tourist spots
which should be considered in future
 Facilitator thanked all the participants for active participation and productive
contribution
 Dr. Failler invited all to 2018 Cruise he dreamed
 Dr. Hussain appreciated the efforts of Prof. M Shahadat Hossain and thanked all to for
the successful completion of the workshop and the program was wrapped up at 4.45
pm.

19
Annexe 1: Agenda
EU-BGD Joint Collaboration on Blue Economy
Maritime Affairs Unit, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, GoB with the support of the European Union

Regional workshop on
Role of Coastal and Marine Tourism on Blue Economy Development in Bangladesh

Date: 27 August 2017 Time: 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Venue: Naba Inn, Chittagong

Aim: To discuss the pathways for the development of coastal and marine tourism in Bangladesh with an
emphasis on opportunities, constraints and the coordination mechanism from all aspects and dimensions
related to tourism.

Program Schedule
Time Topic Resource Person/Moderator/Facilitator

0900-0930 Registration
0930 – 0945 Welcome address
0945 – 1000 Objective and scope of the
workshop
1000 – 1015 Connecting People and Nature:
Coastal and Marine Ecotourism
Opportunities in Bangladesh
1015 – 1030 Tea break and group picture
Dr. M. Gulam Hussain, Fisheries and Aquaculture Expert,
EU-BGD joint collaboraion on Blue Economy in
Bangladesh, Maritime Affairs Unit, Ministry of Foreign
Affairs, Government of Bangladesh
Dr. Piere Failler, Economist (Team Leader)
EU-BGD joint collaboration on Blue Economy in
Bangladesh,
Economics and Finance Dept. University of Portsmouth,
UK
Professor M Shahadat Hossain, Institute of Marine
Sciences and Fisheries, CU

1030 –12.00 Thematic presentation on Coastal and Marine Ecotourism in Bangladesh: 10 minutes each
(using templates: baseline, opportunities, and constraints)
1. Perspectives of Tourism Professor Sayedur R Chowdhury, Institute of Marine
Development along the Coast Sciences and Fisheries, CU
2. Ecotourism and Cruise Mr. M. Nur Nobi, Associate Professor, Dept. Economics,
Tourism Perspectives CU
3. Experiences in Coastal and Mr. Taufiq Rahman, Chief Executive, Journey Plus,
Marine Tourism: Silver Gulshan-1, Dhaka
Discoverer to Bangladesh
4. Planning Issues and Md. Main Uddin, Assistant Professor
Environmental Concerns: how Institute of Forestry and Environment Sciences, CU
have they been addressed?
5. Major Constraints to Tourism Dr M. Edris Alam, Associate Professor, Department of
Development Geography and Environmental Studies, CU
6. Government Current and Mr. Mizanur Rahman, Manager, Hotel Shaikat, Chittagong
Future Actions
7. Public Private Partnerships: A Professor Dr Md. Shamsuddoha, Department of Marketing,
Formula for Coastal and CU
Marine Ecotourism Sector
8. Public Private Partnerships in Mr. Tashin Lutfur, Executive Director, Niribili Group, Cox's
Coastal and Marine Tourism Bazar
Development
12.00 –1300 Open discussion with a special All participants
attention on coordination
1300 – 1400 Lunch and prayer
1400 – 1530 Group works on key
opportunities and constraints
1530 – 1600 Tea break
1600 – 1630 Wrap-up and closing

20
Annexe 2: List of participants
Regional Blue Economy Workshop, Chittagong, Bangladesh
Date: 27 August 2017 (09:00-17:00)
Organized by: Maritime Affairs Unit, MOFA with the support of the European Union
Venue: Naba Inn, O.R. Nizam Road R/A, Road # 5, Chittagong-4000

List of participants

Sl. Name Organization/specialization Contacts Signature

1. Professor Economist (Team Leader) Mobile: 01715-155980
Piere Failler EU-BGD Blue Economy in Email: pierre.failler@port.ac.uk
Bangladesh
Economics and Finance
Dept.
University of Portsmouth, UK
2. Dr. M. Gulam Fisheries and Aquaculture Mobile: 01715-155980
Hussain Expert Email:
EU-BGD Blue Economy in hussain.mgulam@gmail.com
Bangladesh
Former DG, BFRI
3. Professor M Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01711-720950
Shahadat and Fisheries, CU Email: hossainms@yahoo.com
Hossain
4. Professor Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01768-222912
Sayedur R and Fisheries, CU Email:
Chowdhury Ocean modelling, Marine sayedurrchowdhury@gmail.com
fisheries survey
5. Mr. M. Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01711-788270
Zahedur R and Fisheries, CU Email: zahedims@yahoo.com
Chowdhury
6. Mr. M.I. Golder Director, Marine Fisheries Mobile:01715-385124
Office, DoF, Chittagong Email: golder4@gmail.com
7. Professor Dr Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01753-771162
Sheikh Aftab and Fisheries, CU Email: aftabims@yahoo.com
Uddin
8. Professor Department of Public Mobile: 01819-801021, 01751-
Hossaien Kabir Administration, CU 918460
Email: hossaien.kabir@cu.ac.bd
9. Mr. Mizanur Manager, Hotel Shaikat, Mobile: 01714 277155
Rahman Chittagong, National Tourism Email: bpcmizan@gmail.com
Authority
10. Mr. Imrul Hotel Shaikat, Chittagong, Mobile: 01712-921621
Hasan National Tourism Authority Email: bpcmizan@gmail.com
11. Mr. Taufiq Chief Executive, Journey Mobile: 01819 227901
Rahman Plus, Niketan, Gulshan 1, Email: taufiq@journeyplus.com
Dhaka
12. Mr. Tashin Executive Director, Niribili Mobile: 01779 198738
Lutfur Group, Cox's Bazar Email: tashin.lutfur@gmail.com
13. Dr M. Edris Associate Professor, Mobile: 01711-230855
Alam Department of Geography Email: edrisalam@yahoo.com
and Environmental Studies,
CU
14. Mr. M. Mahbub Marine Fisheries Academy, Mobile: 01979-217163
Alam Fish Harbour, Chittagong Email: malam.mfa@gmail.com
15. Professor Dr Department of Marketing, CU Mobile: 01819-319100
Md. Email: mdsdoha@gmail.com

21
 Sl. Name Organization/specialization Contacts Signature
Shamsuddoha
16. Mr. M. Nur Department of Economics, Mobile: 01716-395793
Nobi CU Email: nobinur@yahoo.com
17. Capt. Kazi Bangladesh Marine Mobile: 01711-374620
A.B.M Academy, Chittagong Email:
Shameem captshameem@yahoo.com
18. Mr. Md. Main Assistant Professor, Institute Mobile: 01991-946688
Uddin of Forestry and Environment Email: main@cu.ac.bd
Sciences, CU
19. Ms. Shiffat Associate Professor, Mobile: 01741-108738
Sharmin Department of Law, CU Email: shiffat75@gmail.com
20. Mr Jewel Das Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01730-739359
and Fisheries, CU Email: jewelrny@yahoo.com
21. Mr. Robiul Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01677-715990
Kauser and Fisheries, CU Email: mrkauser23@gmail.com
22. Mr. Zahid Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01867-850779
Hasan and Fisheries, CU Email:
dreamzahid94@gmail.com
23. Mr. Supratim Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01783-302844
Das and Fisheries, CU Email: supro.stu@gmail.com
24. Mr. Sourav Institute of Marine Sciences Mobile: 01843-699371
Saha Joy and Fisheries, CU Email: souravjoycu@gmail.com

22

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