Hanoi (VNA) - According to the General Statistics Office, Vietnam welcomed over 12.7 million international visitors in the first nine months of 2024, a 43% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The Republic of Korea led the way with 3.3 million visitors, followed by China with 2.7 million, together accounting for 47.8% of total arrivals. Taiwan, the US, Japan, Malaysia, Australia, India, Cambodia, and Thailand rounded out the top 10 markets.
Aviation played a crucial role, with nearly 10.8 million international visitors arriving by air, accounting for 84.9% of total international arrivals, marking a 38.7% increase from the previous year.
Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Hoang Dao Cuong highlighted the aviation sector's vital contribution to post-pandemic tourism recovery, emphasising that air travel remains the dominant mode of arrival for international visitors.
“The role of carriers in the (tourism sector’s) post-pandemic recovery is undeniable. Statistics show that visitors travelling to Vietnam via airlines account for the vast majority compared to other means of transportation,” he said.
Despite significant progress, Vietnam’s tourism arrivals remain below potential. In 2023, Vietnam welcomed 12.6 million international visitors, ranking fourth in Southeast Asia, trailing Malaysia (29 million), Thailand (28 million), and Singapore (13.6 million).
Vietnam Airlines Chairman Dang Ngoc Hoa acknowledged the challenges, emphasising that the aviation sector is key to expanding Vietnam’s global reach. He noted that the Asia-Pacific region is expected to lead global economic growth, with aviation traffic in the region projected to grow 5.3% annually, surpassing the global average of 3.8%. By 2040, the region could account for over 60% of global passenger growth, and Vietnam’s aviation market is expected to triple, reaching approximately 200 million passengers annually.
Hoa stressed the need for Vietnam Airlines to maintain its competitive edge amid fierce competition from domestic and international carriers. The national flag carrier is focusing on digital transformation and ensuring safety to secure its position as a leader in Vietnam's aviation industry.
In response to government directives, Vietnam Airlines has developed a comprehensive restructuring plan to overcome challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hoa expressed hope for swift approval of the plan so that the airline can implement necessary measures for long-term growth.
Despite difficulties, Vietnam Airlines continues to expand its global network, with plans to launch routes to Italy, Denmark, and Canada by 2025./.
