Vietnam declared that it is looking forward to welcoming up to 23 million international visitors in the coming year.

This projected figure is higher by 28 percent than the forecast for 2024; at the same time, tourism is expected to contribute up to eight percent to Vietnam’s total gross domestic product (GDP).

At a conference held on Thursday, 19th December, Vietnam National Administration of Tourism deputy director Pham Van Thuy said the country’s tourism industry has significantly contributed to GDP growth, created numerous jobs and improved the quality of life for people.

By 2025, the sector aims to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels, achieving an annual domestic visitor growth rate of up to nine percent.

In 2023, tourism accounted for seven percent of GDP; as of press time, 2024 figures have yet to be released.

In the numbers

Vietnam is expected to welcome up to 17.5 million foreign tourists this year. 

As of 30th November, the country already recorded 15.8 million international arrivals and earned US$29 billion in tourism revenues.

The 11-month figure hit 88 percent of this year’s target of 18 million arrivals, marking a 41 percent year-on-year increase.

Looking ahead to 2030, Vietnam’s tourism industry aims to become a spearhead economic sector, targeting 35 million international visitors and 160 million domestic tourists. 

The sector aims to contribute up to 13 percent to the GDP, creating over 10 million jobs.