Vietnam Launches New Tourism Development Programme for High-Value Growth and 50 Million Visitors by 2030

Written By: Manab Baidya

Manab Baidya

I am currently studying for MA in English while also currently pursuing Journalism at Dibrugarh University. Passionate about storytelling, media, communication, and creative expression through words. Working as a Content Writer in the travel and tourism industry, where I transform destinations, experiences, and cultures into engaging stories. Constantly learning, exploring new ideas, and building a journey driven by creativity, curiosity, and meaningful content. Believer in growth, good vibes, and the power of words to connect people across the world.

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September 9, 2026 08:23 GMT+5:30

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Vietnam develops new tourism strategy to become key regional destination. Vietnam has launched a new tourism development programme which it hopes will transform the country into a high-value destination and see an increase in the number of both international and domestic tourists by 2030. The programme will focus on quality and see a rise in spending by tourists as the government looks to promote Vietnam as one of Southeast Asia’s prime destinations.

The new direction represents a major shift from a volume-based tourism model towards a more premium, sustainable and experience-driven approach. Instead of focusing only on increasing arrivals, Vietnam aims to encourage longer stays, higher-value travel experiences and stronger economic benefits for local communities.

The strategy has been outlined through Resolution No. 263/NQ-CP, issued on September 7, 2026, which introduces the Government’s action programme to implement the national vision of developing tourism into a spearhead economic sector in the new era.

Vietnam Targets 50 Million International Visitors Through New Tourism Vision

Under the new tourism development programme, Vietnam has established ambitious targets for the tourism industry by 2030. The country aims to generate US$80–90 billion in total tourism revenue while strengthening its role as a major tourism destination in Asia.

The programme is expected to support Vietnam’s broader economic growth ambitions by positioning tourism as a key contributor to national development. The sector is being encouraged to create stronger connections with culture, transportation, technology, hospitality, retail and local industries.

The transformation is centred on developing tourism that creates greater value rather than simply increasing visitor numbers. More attention will be placed on travellers who seek unique experiences, longer holidays and premium services.

Vietnam Shifts From Mass Tourism Towards High-Value Travel Experiences

A major element of the programme is the transition from traditional tourism expansion towards quality-focused development. The Government has called for tourism to become a new growth driver supported by improved efficiency, sustainability and innovation.

The new approach will prioritise:

• Higher visitor spending
• Longer average stays
• Premium travel experiences
• Sustainable destination management
• Greater benefits for local economies

Vietnam’s tourism strategy will focus on attracting markets with strong purchasing power and travellers who are interested in year-round experiences.

The programme identifies several tourism segments with strong growth potential, including:

Through these areas, Vietnam aims to strengthen its international appeal while creating more diverse reasons for travellers to visit beyond traditional sightseeing.

Vietnamese Cuisine and Shopping Experiences Become Tourism Growth Drivers

The new programme identifies Vietnamese cuisine as an important area for tourism value creation. Food experiences are expected to become a stronger part of destination marketing and visitor spending strategies.

The Government plans to encourage the development of Vietnamese restaurants that meet domestic and international standards while strengthening the global reputation of Vietnamese food.

Tourism growth will also be supported through expanded shopping experiences, including:

• Shopping centres
• Duty-free stores
• Outlet destinations
• Night markets
• Local product experiences

By combining food, shopping and cultural experiences, Vietnam aims to increase tourist spending and create stronger connections between visitors and local businesses.

The approach reflects a wider global tourism trend where travellers increasingly seek authentic experiences involving local lifestyles, traditional products and regional identities.

Rural and Community Tourism Receives Greater Attention

Another important part of Vietnam’s tourism development programme is the expansion of community-based and rural tourism.

Model tourism villages are planned in rural areas, mountainous regions and communities with ethnic minority populations. These destinations will focus on preserving local identity while creating new economic opportunities.

The planned tourism models will connect:

• Cultural preservation
• Agricultural experiences
• Traditional crafts
• Local markets
• Indigenous lifestyles

This approach is expected to help distribute tourism benefits beyond major cities and coastal destinations.

By developing community tourism, Vietnam aims to protect cultural heritage while offering visitors more meaningful and immersive travel experiences.

Vietnam Builds Stronger Global Tourism Brand Through Digital Promotion

The programme also introduces a stronger international marketing strategy through the National Tourism Promotion Programme for 2026–2035.

Tourism promotion will be connected with:

• Cultural diplomacy
• Cuisine promotion
• Cinema
• Performing arts
• Sports events
• International festivals

Vietnam’s tourism image will increasingly be promoted through digital platforms, multimedia campaigns and new communication channels.

A proposed digital tourism ambassador programme will also help expand Vietnam’s presence in key international markets.

The country aims to establish itself as a leading Asian destination recognised for:

• Heritage experiences
• World-class cuisine
• Beach holidays
• Cultural attractions
• Vietnamese lifestyle experiences

Smart Technology and Green Tourism Become Core Priorities

The new tourism development programme places strong emphasis on smart tourism, digital transformation and environmental sustainability.

Tourism management will be modernised through improved data systems, technology applications and smart destination indicators.

Local destinations will be encouraged to develop:

• Smart tourism centres
• Digital visitor services
• Technology-based destination management
• Green tourism models

Environmental protection will also become a central focus. The programme promotes:

• Electric transport solutions
• Energy management systems
• Eco-friendly materials
• Circular economy practices

Green transport options, including electric vehicles and electric buses, will be encouraged in urban tourism zones, islands and night-time economic areas.

Tourism Businesses Receive Support for Digital Expansion

The programme also aims to strengthen tourism businesses by encouraging wider use of digital commerce and modern payment systems.

Businesses will receive support to:

• Develop online sales channels
• Promote tourism products digitally
• Expand cashless payment systems
• Participate in cross-border e-commerce

Greater cooperation between businesses, government agencies and local communities will be encouraged to create integrated tourism value chains.

This will allow destinations, hotels, attractions, restaurants and service providers to work together more effectively.

Vietnam’s Tourism Future Focuses on Sustainability, Innovation and Global Competitiveness

Vietnam’s new tourism development programme represents a major step towards creating a more competitive and sustainable travel industry. The strategy moves beyond traditional visitor growth by focusing on quality experiences, stronger branding, digital innovation and environmental responsibility.

With targets of 50 million international visitors, 160 million domestic tourists and US$90 billion in tourism revenue by 2030, Vietnam is positioning tourism as one of the country’s most important economic sectors.

The future direction is centred on creating a tourism ecosystem where visitors enjoy richer experiences, businesses gain stronger opportunities and local communities benefit from sustainable development.

Vietnam announced a new tourism development programme to increase tourism-based value-added and attract 50 million visitors by 2030.

With the use of high technology, cultural heritage conservation, high-class tourism products and international promotion, Vietnam targets to establish its tourism brand in the region and become one of the most competitive tourism destinations in Asia.