Industry Update Vietnam's Ambitious Tourism Master Plan: A Vision for 2030 and Beyond

Recently, the Vietnamese government unveiled its Master Plan for the tourism sector, setting ambitious targets for 2021-2030 with a vision extending to 2045. This strategic plan aims to position Vietnam as a leading global tourist destination, promoting sustainable and green growth.

Key Goals and Objectives

By 2025, Vietnam seeks to enhance its attractiveness to tourists, and by 2030, tourism is expected to be a pivotal economic driver. The sector aims to contribute 8-9% to GDP by 2025 and 13-14% by 2030. This growth includes attracting 35 million international visitors and 160 million domestic trips by 2030, creating 10.5 million jobs, with 3.5 million being direct positions.

Sustainability Initiatives

A significant aspect of the plan is environmental sustainability. By 2030, all tourist areas, accommodations, and coastal businesses will eliminate single-use plastics and non-biodegradable bags, aligning with global green practices.

Market Expansion and Recovery

From 2021 to 2025, Vietnam will focus on recovering traditional markets while tapping into emerging ones like India and the Middle East. Between 2026 and 2030, the plan is to expand in Northeast Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, North America, Russia, Eastern Europe, and Oceania, targeting high-spending tourists.

Product Development and Cultural Integration

The plan emphasizes leveraging Vietnam’s marine and island tourism, cultural heritage, and cuisine to create competitive tourism products. There is also a focus on integrating tourism with the cultural industry and boosting the night-time economy.

Strategic Spatial Development

The development strategy includes 6 tourism regions, 3 growth poles, 8 driving areas, 5 main corridors, and 11 centers, with 61 potential sites earmarked for development into national tourist areas.

Vietnam's Master Plan for tourism reflects a bold vision to boost the economy while ensuring sustainability and cultural preservation, paving the way for a thriving future in the global tourism landscape.