Hanoi (VNA) – The coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic couldcause losses of 5.9-7.7 billion USD for the domestic tourism sector in the nextthree months, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism(VNAT).
The tourism sector estimated a 90 percent decrease in the numberof Chinese visitors due to the disease, and a 50-70 percent drop in holidaymakersfrom other countries.
Meanwhile, the number of domestic holidaymakersis likely to suffer a fall of 50-70 percent.
China, where the outbreak began late last year, has advised itscitizens to stay at home. Vietnam has also stemmed the flow of tourists fromcoronavirus-stricken areas and suspended festivals. International vacationershave stayed away from Asia while many Vietnamese tourists have decided to stayat home.
The VNAT said losses caused by COVID-19 could be huge in both theshort and long terms.
To cope with this, the agency has outlined a plan to help theindustry recover, focusing on nearby markets connected by favourable air routeslike the Republic of Korea (RoK), Japan, Taiwan (China) and the Association ofSoutheast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and others with major potential such as India.
At the same time, Vietnam will focus more on North America, andmaintain and expand its reach to Western and Northern Europe.
The VNAT plans to work with partners, particularly airlines, todiscuss tourism cooperation and recovery after the acute respiratory disease subsides.
Resources will be mobilised for promotional campaigns throughtelevision and social networks, especially major TV channels like CNN, in orderto show Vietnam’s ability to control the crisis and promote the country as anattractive, safe and friendly destination.
Travel companies are also implementing stimulation packages,seeking new markets and offering new tours that ensure safety./.
VNA