Poverty is widespread and ubiquitous in South Asia, which could be reduced through promotion of tourism. Despite huge potentials, the contribution of tourism has been minimal in the GDP and in employment in the South Asian countries. To exploit the tourism potentials, more coordinated efforts are needed to improve road, rail and air links and infrastructure; simplify visa and administrative procedures; and encourage private sector.
This paper summarises some of the statistics showing the economic impact of tourism in Bangledesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
