Declare tourism industry as a national industry: NATO

Association of Tour Operators (NATO) has urged the government to declare tourism sector as a national industry. Submitting some recommendations to the Ministry of Finance (MoF) on Sunday, NATO made this request.

According to a press release issued by NATO, president of NATO Basant Raj Mishra submitted the recommendations to Finance Minister Dr. Ram Sharan Mahat.

"The tourism industry, one of the three prominent sectors of the Nepalese economy, should be declared as a national industry and various amenities as that of a national industry should be provided to the industry," stated the release.

Demanding that no new taxes or fees be introduced in the upcoming budget, NATO said it should focus on building the confidence of all the sectors, particularly the tourism industry.

NATO, recommending for the promotion of Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) said, "The government should extend necessary support to run it in full capacity as a strong entity."

"We request the government to ameliorate services like telephone, toilets and immigration works," added the release.

NATO has also recommends the Finance Ministry to regain lost confidence of tourism industry through effective marketing, to encourage international flights and to develop tourism infrastructures.

In its recommendations, NATO has sought enhancement in competitive strength of local tour operators, enhancement of competition with equal opportunities to all, encouragement in international flights/ charters, separation of Tour Operators and Travel Agents among others.