Bangladesh, July 23 -- Myanmar is stepping up efforts to revive its tourism industry by easing visa requirements and targeting more visitors from neighboring countries as it seeks to rebuild one of its key economic sectors. City& Local Guides

The military-backed government aims to attract 1.8 million foreign tourists this year, nearly doubling last year's total of 973,263 arrivals. Official data showed international visitor numbers reached more than 448,000 during the first five months of the year, putting the country on course for growth if arrivals accelerate in the second half.

Officials expect travelers from China and Thailand to drive much of the recovery. Myanmar has expanded its visa-on-arrival program for citizens of China, Ind...