Hanoi (VNA) - In an unprecedented start to the year, Vietnam welcomed over 6 million foreign visitors during the first quarter, up 29.6% annually and setting a new record, signaling a bright outlook for the industry as the country rolls out aggressive promotional campaigns to attract even more international travelers.
A multi-front promotional blitz
In March, the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) launched a dedicated tourism stimulus platform for 2025 at https://2025.vietnam.travel. The website provides comprehensive updates on visa exemptions for citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland, alongside promotional programmes and discounts from local businesses and authorities.
To amplify its global reach, VNAT is leveraging its primary website, https://vietnam.travel, and social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Key promotional highlights include the Government’s new visa exemption policy for 12 countries effective from March 15, 2025, Michelin-recommended restaurants in the central city of Da Nang, and immersive cultural, culinary, and historical tours in the capital city of Hanoi.
The platform also showcases top tourist destinations like Phu Quoc pearl island, surfing havens in Mui Ne, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Vung Tau, and Phan Rang, as well as The Times UK’s curated list of Vietnam’s 12 must-visit attractions.
VNAT’s official website, https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn, promotes major cultural and tourism events, including the launch of National Tourism Year Hue 2025, the Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival, and the Hue Festival 2025. A list of vibrant local festivals that will draw attention include the Da Nang Food Tour 2025, An Giang’s UNESCO recognition ceremony, Ba Chua Xu Temple Festival, Putaleng Festival in Lai Chau, Ba Trieu Temple Festival in Thanh Hoa, Cherry Blossom Festival in Quang Ninh, Phong Luu Khau Vai Market Festival in Ha Giang, and Ban Flower Festival in Dien Bien.
How to make breakthrough?
On March 10, the Prime Minister issued a Directive outlining key tasks and solutions to adapt to global developments, drive economic growth, maintain macroeconomic stability, curb inflation, and ensure major economic balances in 2025 and beyond. Central to this vision is enhancing Vietnam's appeal to international visitors through expanded visa exemptions, streamlined administrative procedures, and an upgraded e-visa system.
Earlier, the PM also called for intensified tourism promotion, quality tourism products, and vibrant cultural, art and sport events. The national target programme for cultural development for 2025–2035 and the cultural industry development plan are expected to further catalyse tourism growth.
To solidify Vietnam’s global tourism standing, tourism officials are committed to sustainable, green development. Secretary-General of the Vietnam Tourism Association Vu Quoc Tri said the industry must actively engage companies, not just through rhetoric but with concrete, committed partnerships and practical support.
He cautioned that over-reliance on peak seasons and festivals risks instability, urging a shift toward a year-round tourism model.
“Sustained growth demands a strategic pivot from seasonal dependency to a continuous, diversified industry,” Tri said. “By investing in quality tourism products, targeted marketing, and professional campaigns, and by tailoring experiences to diverse visitor segments, Vietnam can extend stays, boost spending, and foster sustainable business growth”./.
