Vietnam anticipates robust rebound in inbound tourism

2024 is expected to be a breakthrough year of Vietnam’s tourism (Photo: Vietnam+)

Hanoi (VNA) - As one of the sectors leading the economic recovery, Vietnamese tourism is gaining momentum, paving the way for a more vibrant year in 2024.

In addition to leveraging government support through favorable policies, Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association Vu The Binh emphasized the importance of collaboration between the tourism sector and other industries to capitalize on natural resources.

2024 will be a breakthrough year of Vietnam’s tourism?

- In light of the achievements made in 2023, what expectations does the tourism association have regarding the recovery as we step into 2024?"

Vietnam Tourism Association Chairman Vu The Binh: In 2023, the tourism industry made positive strides, with the number of visitors surpassing expectations and signaling promising growth in the years ahead.

The government’s endeavors to revise immigration laws and engage in exciting diplomatic activities in 2023 have laid the groundwork for even stronger development opportunities in 2024.

As you have engaged in tourism activities for over half a century, how do you assess the trends and challenges that the industry is likely to encounter this year?

Vietnam Tourism Association Chairman Vu The Binh: In 2024, the tourism industry will undoubtedly encounter several challenges.

First, ensuring the sufficient source of customers will remain a challenge as many countries are still in the process of recovery, and individual countries have certain policy changes. To attract visitors, we must intensify our efforts and promote diverse tourism activities.

Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association Vu The Binh (Photo: Vietnam+)

Second, post-COVID-19 customers have different needs and preferences compared to pre-pandemic times. Therefore, the tourism industry must adapt and create products that cater to their demands.

Cultural tourism products will be particularly important in the future, so the industry is focusing on their development.

Third, the industry is facing a shortage of human resources as more than half of its workforce has shifted to other sectors.

In 2023, the entire industry needs to make a concerted effort to attract and retain talents, and this effort must be further promoted in the coming year.

- In 2023, international tourist markets in Vietnam fell short of expectations. What actions do you believe are necessary to attract more international visitors in 2024?

Vietnam Tourism Association Chairman Vu The Binh:

While international tourist markets are gradually recovering, some of our key markets have not performed as expected. Japan and the Republic of Korea, however, have shown a relatively fast recovery rate, and we hope that the number of visitors from these two markets in 2024 will surpass that in 2019.

Japan and the Republic of Korea are two markets with a fairly fast recovery rate in Vietnam. (Illustration image: Vietnam+)

Particularly, China is a crucial market, and Vietnamese businesses are eagerly anticipating its reopening. Although the increase may be gradual, we are confident that when it happens, it will be significant.

Therefore, we are looking forward to collaborative efforts between Vietnam and China to further explore this market, with the hope of attracting Chinese visitors on par with the figures seen in 2019.

Tourism businesses are expected to draw 20 million international tourists in 2024. We believe this goal can be achieved with their strong efforts and determination.

Tapping on cultural resources

- In 2023, Vietnam hosted several international music events. How can we improve the service supply chain and foster linkages to develop this type of tourism?

Vietnam Tourism Association Chairman Vu The Binh: Tourism is a sector that encompasses both economic and cultural aspects. When tourism is combined with culture, it can yield positive outcomes.

However, there is often a disconnect between culture and tourism activities, and they should be seamlessly integrated.

The natural beauty of Vietnam (Photo: Vietnam+)

Enhancing coordination between the tourism and culture industries in hosting major events is crucial to fully capitalize on cultural resources. Only through collaboration can we establish connections that benefit all parties involved.

The post-COVID-19 trend highlights the need for more specialized tourism activities, as modern-day travelers seek deeper cultural and historical experiences, adventure tourism, and destinations with strong indigenous identities.

This is the key for businesses. They need to create tourism products that delve deeply into cultural knowledge to attract more visitors.

In summary, tourism must be closely intertwined with culture, sports, and other events. Strengthening coordination among these sectors is essential, as cultural, musical, and sporting events can yield significant benefits.

- Thank you very much!