What is the reason for the record-breaking tourism revenue of 23.4 billion USD?

In the first seven months of 2025, Vietnam tourism welcomed more than 12.2 million international visitors and 93 million domestic visitors, achieving revenue of VND 616,000 billion, affirming its position as a leading destination in Southeast Asia.

In 2025, Vietnam's tourism industry will witness a strong boom, breaking all previous records and affirming its position as a leading destination in the region.

In the first seven months of this year, Vietnam welcomed 12.2 million international visitors, up 22.5% over the same period in 2024. At the same time, the domestic market also reached 93 million visitors, bringing the total revenue of the whole industry to 616,000 billion VND (equivalent to nearly 23.4 billion USD), completing 63% of the yearly plan.

Open visa policy

According to tourism experts at RMIT University, this achievement comes from a series of strategic initiatives by the Government , effective marketing campaigns and the ability to grasp global tourism trends. In particular, the open visa policy is considered a breakthrough step.

Vietnam aims to welcome 22-23 million international visitors this year, making tourism a driving force for economic growth.

PHOTO: LE NAM

Dr Daisy Kanagasapapathy, Associate Dean of Tourism and Hospitality Management at RMIT Vietnam, said that the expansion of e-visas for all nationalities with a 90-day stay, allowing multiple entries, along with the increase in the list of visa-exempt countries, has made Vietnam a more attractive and accessible destination compared to other countries in the region.

Along with that, the unprecedented development of aviation infrastructure also contributed to creating new momentum. Many direct international flights from Europe, North America and the Middle East were opened, attracting a large number of tourists from China, Korea, Japan, the US and European countries.

Ms. Kanagasapapathy emphasized that the 50th anniversary of the country's reunification is also an important highlight, when the Government takes advantage of the historical moment to promote the "Vietnam: Journey to Reunification" campaign associated with historical sites such as the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and at the same time connecting with outstanding natural wonders such as Ha Long Bay or Sa Pa.

Pioneer in exploiting niche tourism

In addition to traditional markets, Vietnam is also pioneering in exploiting niche tourism. For example, developing products to serve Muslim customers with Halal food certification, accommodation systems and prayer facilities have helped Vietnam become a friendly destination for tourists from Indonesia, Malaysia and the Middle East.

Dr Jackie Ong, senior lecturer in Tourism and Hospitality Management at RMIT Vietnam, commented: New types of tourism such as trekking, cave exploration, motorbike tourism, combined with health care resorts and eco-tourism are also expanding the customer base, attracting those who prefer unique and personalized experiences.

Dr Daisy Kanagasapapathy (left), Dr Jackie Ong (right)

PHOTO: NVCC

Infrastructure investment, especially airport expansion in major cities, is considered an important foundation to enhance tourism experiences and distribute visitors to many regions. In parallel, global marketing strategies through the campaigns "Discover Vietnam" and "Vietnam - Year-round Destination" have created a ripple effect, promoting a diverse image of Vietnam to the international community.

Mr. Nguyen Trung Khanh, Director of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, emphasized at the opening ceremony of HorecFex 2025 on August 26 in Da Nang: "This is an important push for the tourism industry to innovate its growth model, apply technology and build a sustainable ecosystem. Vietnam is significantly improving its competitiveness thanks to infrastructure, service quality and product diversification."

Vietnam tourism has made great strides.

PHOTO: NHAT THINH

From a business perspective, Mr. Nguyen Quoc Ky, Chairman of Vietravel Holdings, said: "In 2024, Vietnam will have 17.6 million international visitors and 110 million domestic visitors, contributing about 8% of GDP and creating 6 million jobs. The target by 2030 is to have 35 million international visitors and 160 million domestic visitors, with 10.5 million jobs and contributing 14 to 15% of GDP."

Despite its many records, Vietnam is still aiming for sustainable development. Experts suggest focusing on five pillars: promoting green tourism, leveraging digital technology, exploring lesser-known destinations, attracting high-spending tourists, and investing in quality human resources.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/du-lich-lap-ki-luc-thu-ve-234-ti-usd-nho-dau-185250827103343914.htm