Dr. Charles Metelka - University of Wisconsin-Stout

National tourism in 1990 forecast a growth from 478,000 jobs in 1990 to 943,000 in
1998 and 1.16 million in the year 2000" (Hall, 2000, p.212). The government of the
Pakistan from start has had long standing interest in Tourism development which is
reflected in Master Plan for tourism in 1965 which was followed by creation of Ministry
for Culture, Sports and Tourism in order to promote and direct the development.
Furthermore, the National Policy launched in 1990 gave way to increased incentives to
deregulate economy. In effect that gave tourism an accorded 'industry 'status which
meant that it was treated and recognized as other major industrial development projects.
Moreover, the government also in line with it waived restrictions on foreign work permits
and foreign exchange controls for increased inward investment in tourism projects. This
was followed by government's establishment of the Regional development Finance
Corporation by government for providing the availability of loan facilities. A number of
tourist transport measures were also undertaken by granting licenses for operation of
Charter flights, excursion trains and steam locomotive services between the major cities
and offered to tourists at concessional rates. In addition to this, there was also number of
changes in visa regulation for foreign tourists with facility of 30-day visas issued for
tourists at the Airport. (Hall, 2000, pg.212) Furthermore, the Pakistan tourism policy of
2001 states:
Tourism shall continue to be treated as an industry, contributing more
aggressively towards socio-economic growth.
• A paradigm shift from promoting seasonal tourism to year rounds tourism.
• A qualitative improvement/development in environment, human resources, tourist
services and the tourist product.
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