North South University (NSU) organized a roundtable discussion titled “Policy Development for Global Competitiveness of Cox’s Bazar” on 29 April 2026, bringing together policymakers, academics, and industry experts to explore sustainable pathways for transforming Cox’s Bazar into a globally competitive destination, a press release said.
The event was featured Saima Shahin Sultana, Chairperson of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, as the Chief Guest. Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice Chancellor of NSU, chaired the session, while Dr. Khandker Md Nahin Mamun, Chairperson of the Department of Marketing and International Business, delivered the keynote address.
Among the distinguished discussants were Akhtaruzzaman Khan Kabir, Ex-Chairman, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation; Mofizur Rahman, Managing Director of Novo Air; Professor AKM Waresul Karim, Dean of the School of Business and Economics, NSU; Professor Santush Kumar Deb, Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at University of Dhaka; Mohammed Rafiuzzaman, President of Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh; Jamiul Ahmed, former Chairman of Tourism Developers Association of Bangladesh and Centre for Tourism Studies (CTS), and Kazi Wahidul Alam, Editor of The Bangladesh Monitor. The session was moderated by Prof. Rafiuddin Ahmed, Director of NSU Social Business Center.
In her remarks, Chief Guest Saima Shahin Sultana emphasized the importance of coordinated policy efforts to unlock the full potential of Cox’s Bazar. She said, “Cox’s Bazar has potential, but we are far behind in global competitiveness. We have to improve our infrastructure, ensure quality services, strengthen policy coordination, and focus on sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism practices.”
Session Chair Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury said, “We should not exaggerate our situation; we have to be realistic about where we stand. Our immediate focus should be on strengthening domestic tourism in Cox’s Bazar while gradually preparing for international standards. The government should develop a comprehensive ecosystem and create space for the private sector to invest and innovate. At the same time, we must explore the opportunities of the blue economy to ensure sustainable and long-term growth.”
Delivering the keynote, Dr. Khandker Md Nahin Mamun stressed the importance of strategic positioning and marketing. He said, “Global competitiveness depends not only on natural beauty but also on how effectively a destination is marketed. Cox’s Bazar needs a strong, data-driven branding strategy to stand out in the global tourism market.”
Moderator Prof. Rafiuddin Ahmed highlighted the broader socio-economic impact of tourism development. “A well-planned tourism ecosystem can drive inclusive growth, create jobs, and support local communities while preserving environmental balance,” he added.
The roundtable was jointly organized by NSU’s Center for Social Impact and Sustainability, NSU Social Business Center, Climate Change and Disaster Resilience Center – NSU, and the Department of Marketing and International Business.
