Vietnam Welcomes 46.6 Million Tourists in First Half, Solidifying Global Standing

Vietnam welcomed 46.6 million foreign tourists in the first half of this year, further solidifying its position as one of the world's leading tourist destinations. This surge in visitor numbers is attributed to several factors, including the recovery of travel demand post-pandemic, particularly the resurgence of long-haul travel from the Americas, and the resumption of business trips. The growing demand for destinations perceived as safe and stable amidst ongoing global geopolitical uncertainties is also believed to be contributing to the increase in tourists to Vietnam. Last year, Vietnam hosted 96.8 million foreign tourists, making it the second most visited country globally, trailing only France. The figures from the first half of this year suggest that this momentum is continuing. Tourism revenue is a key pillar of the Vietnamese economy. The increase in foreign tourists generates ripple effects across various sectors such as accommodation, food and beverage, transportation, and retail, significantly contributing to job creation and foreign exchange earnings. The Vietnamese government aims to further boost tourist numbers by enhancing tourism infrastructure and strengthening promotional activities. Under its one-party system, economic growth is a top policy priority for Vietnam, and the tourism industry is positioned as a vital sector for its achievement. Particularly in relation to China, while economic ties are strong, security concerns also exist. In this context, enhancing the country's international image and fostering cultural exchange through tourism are seen as beneficial to national interests.