Vietnam positioning community-based tourism brand with distinctive products

Community-based tourism is seen as a key product in Vietnam's tourism ecosystem, aimed at preserving and diversifying livelihoods for local communities while improving their quality of life.

The traditional linen weaving craft of the Mong people in Lai Chau province. (Photo: VietnamPlus)
The traditional linen weaving craft of the Mong people in Lai Chau province. (Photo: VietnamPlus)

Hanoi (VNA) – Community-based tourism is seen as a key product in Vietnam's tourism ecosystem, aimed at preserving and diversifying livelihoods for local communities while improving their quality of life.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has recently approved a project to develop this type of tourism, with the goal of establishing a unified approach and positioning its brand in the country. The initiative also seeks to enhance access to public resources and services for rural areas, especially ethnic-minority and mountainous regions.

To achieve its targets, the project will focus on developing products and services that are linked to the growth of cultural industries, integrating authentic experiences in local crafts, and showcasing the traditional cultural values of ethnic groups. This will help create unique identities for each region, gradually develop Vietnam’s community tourism brand, and facilitate its extensive engagement in the global chain of cultural products and services.

community-based tourism 2.jpg
A community-based tourism village of the Muong people in Hoa Binh province. (Photo: VietnamPlus)

Standardising a digital map of community-based tourism destinations

The project outlines a goal to develop community-based tourism as a key product in Vietnam’s tourism portfolio, and improve the quality of its services towards sustainable development. It also aims to diversify livelihoods for local communities and improve their living standards, particularly in regions with large ethnic minority populations, border areas, coastal regions, and islands.

By 2025, it is hoped that the cultural values and traditions of ethnic groups in recognised community-based tourism sites will be preserved and brought into play. At least 20% of these sites will have community centres, while 20% will feature traditional cultural and arts clubs with regular, quality activities. Furthermore, 30% of related service providers will be trained in tourism management, and 20% of the workforce will receive training to improve their hospitality skills.

community-based tourism 3.jpg
Visitors at a traditional stilt house of the Thai people in Moc Chau district, Son La province. (Photo: VietnamPlus)

The project also emphasises the need to establish effective management organisations at these sites and proposes creating frameworks for policy support to help develop the sector. Pilot models for community-based tourism in localities with tourism advantages will also be explored. One of the key objectives of this project is to build a database and digital map of officially recognised sites nationwide.

By 2030, the goal is to develop comprehensive community tourism products in major tourist centres and areas with a high concentration of visitors.

Creating distinctive, attractive tourism products

To achieve its objectives, the project outlines several key measures that involve investment policies, infrastructure, marketing and promotion, investment promotion, cultural value preservation, human resources, and the protection of the environment and natural resources.

A key focus is on effectively utilising government funding to restore and preserve traditional cultures while supporting community tourism. The project also prioritises creating distinctive community tourism products that cater to the tastes of target market tourists. It includes creating benefit-sharing models between communities, businesses and other stakeholders, and developing brands for local and national community-based tourism.

community-based tourism 4.jpg
Cuisine of the northwestern highlands. (Photo: VietnamPlus)

The initiative also promotes the application of digital technologies and smart solutions to enhance product development. It eyes the organisation of various events, forums, and trade shows to connect stakeholders, businesses and investors, and attract tourists to community tourism destinations.

The project stresses the importance of cultural etiquette and behaviour standards, ensuring that both visitors and locals adhere to respectful communication and conduct at related sites.

The project also aims to encourage the development of eco-friendly, organic, and clean products to serve tourists while boosting communications to raise awareness of environmental protection and responsible tourism principles among both locals and visitors./.

VNA

See more

The majestic Bodhisattva Tay Bo Da Son statue amidst the clouds on Ba Den mountain (Source: Sun Group)

US travel guide suggests Mt. Ba Den in a journey to explore culture, history from HCM City

Ba Den Mountain is not only known as the roof of Southern Vietnam but also as a destination rich in historical and cultural significance in the eyes of international travellers. This landmark has been recognised by the world-renowned travel guide Lonely Planet as one of the top 15 must-have experiences when exploring Vietnam. It is also recommended for those looking to delve into history, culture, and fascinating legends in Tay Ninh.

A MICE group at Da Nang international airport (Photo: VNA)

Da Nang remains ideal destination for MICE events in Asia

With its state-of-the-art infrastructure, including top-tier accommodation facilities, seamless transport, and premium tourism services, Da Nang has become the ultimate destination for large-scale events, whether they are global, regional or national.

Traditional Vietnamese art performances attract visitors at the International Tourism Exchange (BIT) Milan 2025. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnamese tourism promoted at Milan int'l travel fair

The first-ever participation of Vietnam Airlines and Vietnamese travel agencies in BIT Milan for the first time also aimed to connect with Italian partners in preparation for the launch of a direct air route in July.

The pristine landscape by the side of Ba Be Lake, part of the Ba Be National Park (Photo: VNA)

Bac Kan leverages eco-tourism potential of Ba Be National Park

Bestowed with year-round mild climate, pristine ecological landscape, and distinctive ethnic minority cultures, the Ba Be National Park holds huge potential for ecological tourism, wellness retreats, educational visits, cultural exploration, and adventure tourism.

The Tet holiday records a surge in tourists to localities. (Photo: NDO)

Vietnam's tourism sector booms during Tet holiday

During the nine-day holiday, localities across the country welcomed nearly 12.5 million domestic travellers, a 19% increase from the same period in 2024. Several provinces and cities recorded tourism revenues exceeding 1 trillion VND.