Mastering the Guest Experience : Strategic Growth in Bangladesh’s Dynamic Hospitality Sector

Industry Challenges

The hospitality and tourism industry in Bangladesh is at a crucial inflection point, marked by high growth potential alongside unique local challenges. Key pain points we observe include:

High Operational Costs & Import Dependency

Hotels face inflated expenses due to commercial (rather than industrial) utility tariffs for gas and electricity, and heavy reliance on imported materials (construction, fixtures, high-end F&B), significantly eroding competitiveness compared to regional peers.

Regulatory & Compliance Complexity

Navigating Bangladesh’s tax structure, including intricate VAT, Withholding Tax (WHT) on services (like rent, catering, and consultancy), and licensing requirements (e.g., Hotel and Restaurant Rules 2016, BSTI certifications) demands highly specialized expertise.

Human Capital & Service Quality Gaps

A critical shortage of locally trained mid-to-senior management results in expensive foreign hires and inconsistent service quality, which hinders global competitiveness and brand standards.

Infrastructure & Investment Risks:

While large investments are being made, issues like high land prices in prime urban areas and the need for robust environmental compliance in emerging eco-tourism zones (like Kuakata or the Sundarbans) pose financial and sustainability risks.

MICE and Digitalization Lag

The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segment and the adoption of smart hotel technology (IoT, digital check-in, dynamic pricing) remain underdeveloped, slowing revenue maximization.

Our Solutions

Shubhankar & Co. provides end-to-end consulting, audit, and advisory services tailored to unlock profitability and ensure compliance within the Bangladeshi hospitality landscape.

Operational Cost Optimization

Deep-dive analysis to identify import substitution opportunities (local sourcing), negotiating utility tariff reclassification, and implementing best-in-class inventory management for high-cost F&B.

Integrated Tax and VAT Advisory

Comprehensive compliance planning for VAT (including turnover tax thresholds), WHT management on rents and service payments, and securing appropriate licenses (MoCAT, RJSC) to mitigate penal risks under the Hotel and Restaurant Act 2014.

Statutory Audit & IFRS/BFRS Alignment

Delivering high-quality statutory audits that align with Bangladesh Financial Reporting Standards (BFRS) and international best practices, ensuring stakeholder trust for foreign investment.

Market Entry and Feasibility Studies

Providing data-driven market forecasts, location selection, and financial modeling for new hotel/resort development, focusing on high-potential segments like MICE and eco-tourism.

Expertise

Our dedicated Hospitality Practice Group leverages specialized knowledge and proprietary tools to serve clients ranging from 5-star international chains to local eco-resorts.

Deep Regulatory Acumen

Unmatched understanding of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) processes, National Board of Revenue (NBR) codes for VAT and WHT, and local licensing mandates (Trade License, Fire Safety, BSTI).

Forecasting & Financial Modeling

Expertise in developing robust financial models for complex capital investment decisions (new construction, expansion) and projecting revenue streams based on domestic and regional tourism trends.

Technology Integration Advisory

Consulting on the strategic implementation of Property Management Systems (PMS), Point of Sale (POS) integration, and yield management software to drive revenue per available room (RevPAR).

HR and Payroll Compliance

Specialized advisory to manage complex payroll structures involving expatriate management and local staff, ensuring compliance with labor laws and associated WHT on salaries.

Why Choose Shubhankar?

We are more than accountants; we are strategic partners in your growth story.

Local Insight, Global Standard

Our team combines international-grade consulting methodologies with granular, on-the-ground knowledge of the Bangladeshi market, regulations, and bureaucratic nuances—a crucial advantage for both local and foreign investors.

Profit-First Compliance

We don't just ensure compliance; we use tax planning and regulatory navigation to identify legitimate cost-saving opportunities and incentives, turning compliance into a profit center.

End-to-End Investment Support

From company incorporation and securing initial licenses to post-launch audit and ongoing operational optimization, we provide a single point of contact throughout your entire business lifecycle.

Our Process

We follow a structured, results-oriented process to ensure clarity, efficiency, and measurable impact for every hospitality client:

Step 1: Diagnostic & Discovery 
We begin with a detailed review of financial structures, tax liabilities, and workflows—identifying 3–5 key pain points such as WHT leakage or inventory cost variance.

Step 2: Strategy & Compliance Roadmap 
Next, we design a customized compliance calendar and cost optimization plan, aligning VAT returns, annual filings, and license renewals with your operational goals.

Step 3: Implementation & Integration 
Our team assists with NBR submissions, system integration (PMS/POS–accounting alignment), and staff training to ensure smooth adoption and compliance.

Step 4: Monitoring & Reporting 
We provide regular KPI-based reports (GOPPAR, RevPAR, occupancy), conduct tax health checks, and hold bi-annual strategic reviews to keep your business optimized and future-ready.

Ready to elevate your hospitality business?

Partner with Shubhankar & Co. for industry-leading consulting that transforms your vision into guest-centric excellence.