Vietnam Redefines Tourism and Economy Through Cultural Integration

Vietnam is accelerating its redefinition of culture, shifting from a mere preservation focus to recognizing it as an endogenous resource that drives economic growth and innovative tourism experiences. Party General Secretary and State President To Lam has emphasized the importance of cultivating culture in both physical and digital spaces, moving beyond a sole prioritization of traditional preservation towards striking a close balance with innovation. As the tourism sector aims to increase visitor spending and extend stays, the development of the night-time economy is increasingly seen as a crucial means to create new tourism products, enhance destination appeal, and support sustainable urban growth. Resolution No. 80-NQ/TW, issued by the Politburo on January 7, 2026, defines culture as the spiritual foundation of society, a vital endogenous resource, a driver of socio-economic development, and a source of national soft power. In the new era, cultural values are expected to permeate all aspects of life, serving as a foundation, resource, catalyst, and regulatory force for the country’s rapid and sustainable development. Efforts to leverage cultural heritage are also advancing. Restoration projects for ancient towers, which have suffered damage from weather, time, and plant growth over more than 800 years, were launched by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism in late 2025. This project, with a budget exceeding 90 billion VND (approximately $3.4 million USD), is scheduled for 10 months, with 40% of the workload now completed. In Hanoi, historical and cultural landmarks are successfully enhancing their value through creative artistic activities. The Thang Long Imperial Citadel regularly hosts historical re-enactments, exhibitions, and cultural experiences, while night tours at the Hoa Lo Prison relic site effectively use sound, light, and performance to enhance storytelling. Furthermore, the integration of culture into international events and sports competitions is progressing. The DIFF 2026 (Da Nang International Fireworks Festival) was a significant success, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors in recent weeks. The achievements of Vietnamese dancesport athlete Nguyen Trong Nha Uyen not only highlight her personal development but also underscore the growing presence of Vietnamese dancesport in elite international competitions. Programs combining cooking demonstrations, cultural talks, chef exchanges, and business networking are also being implemented to elevate the global profile of Vietnamese cuisine and foster deeper international connections through gastronomy. Esports is also entering a new stage of development, increasingly recognized as an important part of Vietnam's national sports strategy, cultural industries, and digital economy. These initiatives are building a solid foundation for preserving, utilizing, and disseminating Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, ensuring its sustainable transmission to future generations. Source: VietnamPlus English