Phu Quoc seeks ways to save tourism.

Kien Giang: Officials and businesses are seeking ways to rescue Phu Quoc tourism as visitor numbers plummeted in 2023, leading to losses for many tourism businesses.

At a meeting between the provincial government and businesses, including the Phu Quoc Tourism Development Investment Association, on October 14th, regarding airfare mechanisms and solutions to stimulate local tourism, one of the reasons for the decline in Phu Quoc tourism was the high price of air tickets to the island compared to other localities.

According to Ms. Le Thi Hai Chau, General Secretary of the Phu Quoc Tourism Investment and Development Association, Phu Quoc tourism has faced many difficulties recently, with many businesses suffering losses. Specifically, during the September 2nd holiday, Phu Quoc only welcomed over 19,000 overnight visitors, a decrease of nearly 40% compared to the same period last year, and the room occupancy rate was only about 27%.

The 4-island tour in Phu Quoc was deserted during the April 30th holiday. Photo: Truong Phu Quoc — The 4-island tour in Phu Quoc was deserted during the April 30th holiday. Photo: *Truong Phu Quoc*

Ms. Chau suggested that airlines should stabilize airfare prices, while businesses should have appropriate pricing policies for services and accommodation so that tourists can enjoy their time in Phu Quoc comfortably.

Regarding the increase in airfare, a representative from Vietjet Air stated that in 2022, tourism in Phu Quoc boomed with approximately 40 flights per day, peaking at around 150 flights. However, this year, tourism in Phu Quoc is slower than in Da Nang, with only about 26 flights per day, affecting the airline's revenue and current ticket prices.

A representative from the airline stated that businesses also need to review the products they offer to tourists, service prices, programs, events, and tourism stimulus packages to retain customers. "We are ready to work with businesses and local authorities to stimulate tourism in Phu Quoc," the representative said.

Phu Quoc City has nearly 30,000 accommodation rooms and 800 tourism service businesses covering diverse segments. According to statistics, about 60% of visitors arrive in Phu Quoc by air, while about 40% arrive by ferry. Currently, most flights and ferries to Phu Quoc are experiencing low passenger numbers.

Mr. Huynh Quang Hung, Chairman of the People's Committee of Phu Quoc City, said that regarding airfare prices, the locality has requested airlines to calculate reasonable prices that harmonize the common interests. "Regarding food safety, environmental protection, and security, the locality will be responsible for inspection and handling to ensure tourists feel safe when coming to enjoy their trip," Mr. Hung said.

Concluding the meeting, Mr. Lam Minh Thanh, Chairman of the People's Committee of Kien Giang province, requested representatives from relevant departments to act as a liaison with airlines, travel agencies, etc., to discuss specific solutions and agree on a plan to contribute to stimulating tourism in the coming period.

Duong Dong

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