Vietnam Tourism Charts New Growth Path Under Resolution 26

Vietnam is advancing the recovery and diversification of its international tourism sector under Resolution 26, which emphasizes a fundamental renewal of mindset, methods, and approaches to tourism development and governance, shifting from quantity to quality and increasing the sector’s contribution to the national economy. In August, Vietnam welcomed nearly 2 million international visitors, a 19.7% increase from July and an 18.4% rise year-on-year, reaching 63.6% of the full-year target of 25 million arrivals. Notably, Russian arrivals surpassed 1 million in the first eight months of 2026, marking a remarkable 165.7% increase year-on-year, the highest growth rate among Vietnam’s major international tourist markets. This indicates a successful diversification of the tourist base. Resolution 26-NQ/TW is seen as a crucial milestone, opening new orientations and development opportunities for Vietnam’s tourism sector. It prioritizes shifting from quantity to quality, aiming to enhance the sector's contribution to the national economy. The tourism market is evolving from sightseeing to experiential engagement, with travelers increasingly seeking authentic local experiences, interaction with local people, and personalized trips with minimal environmental impact and clear community benefits. To adapt, cities like Da Nang are integrating cuisine into tourism itineraries, while Hanoi offers virtual reality experiences and handicraft workshops with artisans to inspire exploration. Efforts are also underway to develop year-round tourism products to overcome seasonality challenges. For instance, Da Lat, a renowned destination in the Central Highlands, is enhancing its access to promising international markets such as the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, India, Taiwan (China), Singapore, and Russia, aided by the upgraded Lien Khuong Airport. Vietnam consistently identifies tourism as a spearhead economic sector. The country aims to strengthen MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) as a strategic tourism product targeting high-quality visitors, thereby boosting trade and investment and enhancing national competitiveness. Cooperation with other CLMV countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam) is also progressing. The joint action plan for 2026–2028 focuses on improving connectivity, promoting digital transformation, developing ecotourism and community-based tourism, enhancing safety, and fostering human resources. Under its one-party system, Vietnam prioritizes state-led economic development strategies, with the tourism sector playing a vital role in achieving national goals. Reducing reliance on the Chinese market while attracting visitors from Russia and other regions will contribute to economic stability and diversification.