Vietnam has announced a major shift in its tourism strategy, moving away from a volume-driven model toward one focused on high-spending visitors, longer stays, and sustainable growth. The policy, formalized in a resolution signed by General Secretary and President To Lam, aims to make tourism a key economic pillar contributing 10-12% of GDP by 2030 and 14-15% by 2045.
The country targets 45-50 million international visitors and 160 million domestic tourists by 2030, with tourism receipts of $80-90 billion. By 2045, Vietnam aims for 70 million international arrivals and a spot among the world's 30 most competitive tourism economies. Growth will be centered around Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, supported by 10 key tourism centers and 20 national tourism areas.
Infrastructure investments will focus on connecting international gateways via aviation, rail, waterways, and seaports, with expanded capacity for large cruise ships. The product mix will broaden to include cultural, marine, ecotourism, wellness, MICE, and high-end rail experiences. Digital technology will play a core role, with a national tourism database, AI for marketing, and IoT for monitoring environmental conditions.
Visa policies are expected to become more flexible, with wider exemptions and easier entry for priority markets. Sustainability measures include investments in waste treatment, reduced plastic use, and greener transportation. Vietnam recorded nearly 21.2 million international arrivals in 2025, with 23-24 million expected by the end of 2026.
For travelers, this strategy means a greater emphasis on quality experiences, with more diverse tourism products and improved infrastructure. Visitors may benefit from easier visa processes and enhanced digital services, while the focus on sustainability could lead to better-preserved natural and cultural sites.
