Phu Quoc Poised to Become Asia's Next MICE Hub with Infrastructure and Luxury Upgrades

Phu Quoc Island, a popular resort destination in southern Vietnam, is aiming to establish itself as a new MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) hub in Asia, driven by significant infrastructure investments and the expansion of luxury hospitality. A key component of the island's transformation is the development of DT975, a major corridor connecting Phu Quoc International Airport with the APEC Convention Centre. This route, designed with 10 motor vehicle lanes and an integrated light rail transit (LRT) line, is set to become a cornerstone of the island's future transportation network. These infrastructure upgrades are laying the groundwork for Phu Quoc to be recognized not just as a tourist destination, but also as a venue for business events. The Vietnamese government has designated the tourism sector as a key economic area, targeting 25 million international visitors and 150 million domestic tourists by 2026. To achieve this goal, Phu Quoc is also focusing on enhancing wellness tourism by combining its abundant natural resources—such as beaches, forests, and mineral springs—with traditional medicine and ethnic cultural identities. For 2026, Vietnam's tourism sector targets 25 million foreign arrivals, 150 million domestic trips, and total revenue of VND 1.125 quadrillion (approximately $43 billion USD). The promotion of MICE tourism has the potential to evolve Phu Quoc from a largely seasonal resort destination into a vibrant, year-round tourism hub. This is expected to lead to increased spending per visitor and strengthen its ability to attract corporate groups, investors, and international professionals. Vietnam's tourism strategy identifies Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang as major tourism growth poles, with Phu Quoc being positioned as a new growth pole. This strategy is explicitly outlined in national resolutions, aiming for the overall development of Vietnam's tourism industry. Improved access to Phu Quoc offers a distinct advantage, particularly for long-haul tourists from Russia. The 45-day visa exemption for Russian citizens makes extended winter escapes easier for travelers, including families and the elderly. International recognition is also on the rise. Chanterelle – Spa by JW at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa was named Vietnam's Best Resort Spa 2026. Furthermore, luxury hotels such as Capella Hanoi, Hotel de la Coupole – MGallery, and InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort have been honored in the 2026 Michelin Key selection, indicating a broader uplift in Vietnam's hospitality sector. Cooperation between Vietnam and the United States is also contributing to the expansion of MICE tourism. Three strategic cooperation pillars spanning payments, hospitality, and aviation are bringing high-level commitments between the two countries closer to tangible projects. Under Vietnam's one-party system, large-scale, state-led development projects are often facilitated, and Phu Quoc's development into a MICE hub can be seen as part of this initiative. With economic growth as a top priority, the tourism industry is positioned as a crucial pillar for foreign exchange earnings and job creation. While economic ties with China are strong, geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the South China Sea, also exist. However, international cooperation in tourism can provide opportunities to deepen friendly relations with various countries. Source: VietnamPlus English