Vietnam’s Tourism Sector Now Surpasses Visitors Record, Celebrates Major Milestone

Published on December 15, 2025

On December 15, 2025, a historical feat was accomplished in Vietnam’s tourism sector when it welcomed its 20 millionth international tourist. This is a record never achieved in the 65-year history of tourism in Vietnam, representing a major milestone in the tremendous progress achieved by Vietnam’s tourist industry, which is considered among the fastest-growing in the world, a factor recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation.

A Welcoming Ceremony to Remember

To celebrate this achievement, a special ceremony was held to honor Karolina Agnieszka and the other two guests who were also part of the milestone: the 19,999,999th and 20,000,001st international arrivals. As part of the celebrations, passengers were greeted at the foot of the aircraft stairs with flowers, and a series of traditional art performances were showcased.

The 20 millionth tourist received a spectacular gift package worth nearly 500 million VND (around $19,000). The luxurious package included a premium pearl necklace, round-trip business-class air tickets provided by Sun PhuQuoc Airways, a stay at a five-star resort, vouchers for Michelin-star dining experiences, and golf and yacht excursions around Phu Quoc. Additionally, the package included priority access to entertainment and leisure services within the Sun Group ecosystem, ensuring a memorable stay for the lucky guest.

The other two special guests, the 19,999,999th and 20,000,001st visitors, also received lavish gift packages, valued at more than 200 million VND each. Their gifts included premium pearls and vouchers for various services and experiences within the Sun Group system.

To top off the celebration, all passengers on the flight were gifted welcome flowers and tickets to the “Kiss of the Sea” show in Sunset Town, Phu Quoc’s special entertainment zone, allowing them to experience some of the best cultural performances Vietnam has to offer.

Vietnam’s Tourism Industry Rebounds Strongly Post-Pandemic

The achievement of 20 million international visitors is particularly remarkable considering the global challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since Vietnam fully reopened its tourism sector on March 15, 2022, the country’s tourism industry has experienced an impressive recovery. In 2023, Vietnam welcomed 12.6 million international visitors, and in 2024, that number grew to 17.6 million.

This remarkable growth trajectory has continued into 2025, with the number of international tourists expected to exceed 21 million by the end of the year. This marks a significant milestone, surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of 18 million international arrivals in 2019. Vietnam’s tourism sector has grown at an estimated rate of 21% this year, cementing its position as one of the fastest-growing tourism markets globally.

Phu Quoc: A Key Player in Vietnam’s Tourism Growth

Phu Quoc, an island in southern Vietnam, has played a crucial role in the country’s tourism development. This year’s 20 millionth tourist arrival is yet another milestone for the island, which has already been the site of several important events in Vietnam’s tourism history.

The island’s popularity continues to rise due to its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant culture. One of the key advantages of Phu Quoc is the pilot visa-free policy that allows international visitors to stay for up to 30 days without a visa. This policy has given Phu Quoc a competitive edge over many other regional destinations, attracting high-spending, long-stay visitors who contribute significantly to the local economy.

With continued investment in infrastructure and luxury offerings, Phu Quoc is expected to become even more important to Vietnam’s tourism future. The island’s ability to attract international tourists has been pivotal in the country’s overall tourism rebound, helping to bring in both leisure and business travelers.

Vietnam’s Rising Reputation on the Global Stage

This milestone also follows a series of prestigious recognitions for Vietnam’s tourism industry. In 2025, Vietnam was honored for the sixth time by the World Travel Awards as the “World’s Leading Heritage Destination” and for the seventh time as “Asia’s Leading Destination.” These accolades highlight the country’s unique cultural and natural assets, as well as its growing appeal as a global travel destination.

Localities, destinations, and tourism enterprises across Vietnam have also been recognized with numerous awards. These honors further reinforce the credibility and attractiveness of Vietnam’s tourism brand, making it an increasingly popular choice for international travelers looking to experience diverse landscapes, rich history, and a warm, welcoming culture.

The Future of Tourism in Vietnam: Sustainability and Growth

Looking ahead, Vietnam’s tourism industry is set to continue its upward trajectory. The country is investing heavily in developing new attractions, improving infrastructure, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. This includes initiatives to preserve the natural beauty of its destinations, reduce environmental impacts, and enhance the visitor experience through technology and innovative services.

The government has also committed to further enhancing visa policies and facilitating easier access for international tourists. These efforts, combined with Vietnam’s increasing recognition as a top destination, will help ensure the long-term success of the tourism industry.

Vietnam’s diverse attractions—from the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay and Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park—are poised to continue drawing travelers from around the world. The country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for a wide range of tourists, from adventure seekers to luxury travelers.

A Bright Future for Vietnam’s Tourism Industry

The attainment of welcoming its 20 millionth international tourist in 2025 is an important milestone in the country’s tourist sector. The durability and fast recovery of the tourist sector post-pandemic and subsequent sustained expansion are a good indication of the country’s popularity in attracting tourists globally. As such, with sustained investment and emphasis on sustainability and innovation, it can be safely foreseen in the future that the tourist sector in Vietnam will continue to excel.