Vietnam Aims for Unprecedented 21 Million Tourists by 2025

Vietnam is gearing up to receive an astonishing influx of 21 million international visitors in 2025, showcasing a remarkable rebound from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism emphasize that these numbers reflect a renewed trust in traveling to Vietnam, as global confidence grows.

The milestone was recently celebrated with the arrival of the 20 millionth tourist on Phu Quoc Island. This event underscores the rapid revival of the tourism sector, anticipating to surpass the previous record of 18 million visitors set in 2019, just before worldwide travel disruption.

Government statistics reveal a 19 percent increase in foreign arrivals compared to last year, as Vietnam continues to draw in travelers with its stunning coastlines, rich cultural experiences, and historical sites, effectively branding itself as one of Southeast Asia's top destinations.

However, the resurgence in tourism occurs amidst pressing environmental issues. Hanoi has been labeled one of the world’s most polluted cities this year, raising flags over air quality. Further complicating the situation, heavy rains have led to significant flooding in tourist spots like Hue, Hoi An, and Nha Trang, impacting local communities and travel plans.

Despite these hurdles, interest in Vietnam remains robust. Many visitors are drawn to the country for its affordability, rich offerings, and enhanced travel services, as local businesses expand their services to cater to growing international demand.

In stark contrast to pandemic years, when strict border closures led to a mere 160,000 foreign visitors in 2021, the current growth illustrates a swift recovery as travel restrictions ease.

According to the National Statistics Office, China dominated the list of visitors to Vietnam over the initial 11 months of this year, constituting roughly one-quarter of total arrivals. Other notable markets include South Korea, Taiwan, the United States, and Japan. Officials are optimistic that Vietnam’s tourism resurgence will persist well into the future.