Vietnam’s Remarkable Growth in International Tourism
Vietnam has emerged as a standout performer in the global tourism landscape, recording the sixth-highest growth in international tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2025. Within the Asia-Pacific region, it leads the way with the highest growth rate, showcasing its appeal to travelers from around the world.
According to the May edition of the World Tourism Barometer published by the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), Vietnam outperformed several nations including Paraguay, Brazil, Chile, Gambia, and Israel. This impressive growth reflects the country’s efforts to reposition itself as a top destination for international tourists.
Record Numbers of Visitors
Data from the General Statistics Office highlights the magnitude of this success. In the first quarter of 2025, Vietnam welcomed over 6 million international visitors, marking the highest quarterly figure in the nation’s history. By the end of May, the number had surged to 9.2 million, representing an increase of over 21% compared to the same period in 2024 and a 15% rise compared to 2019 levels.
This surge in visitors has translated into strong performance in terms of tourism revenue. Vietnam ranks fourth globally in tourism revenue growth, with a 29% increase from the previous year. Additionally, the country is second in terms of international arrival recovery, having grown by 34% compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Strategic Efforts to Boost Tourism
The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism attributes this success to coordinated efforts within the tourism sector. These include refreshing promotional strategies, launching stimulus programs, and diversifying tourism offerings to attract a broader range of visitors.
One key factor contributing to this growth is the Vietnamese government’s decision to ease visa policies. Starting March 1, 2025, Vietnam waived visas for tourists from Poland, Czechia, and Switzerland who are traveling on package tours for up to 45 days. This move aims to simplify the travel process for visitors from these countries.
In mid-March, the government also announced an extension of visa exemptions for citizens of 12 countries. These include Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, and the U.K. The waiver was initially set to expire on March 15, but the extension ensures continued access for these travelers through 2028.
A Growing Destination
These policy changes have played a crucial role in attracting more international visitors. By reducing barriers to entry, Vietnam is making it easier for travelers to plan trips to the country. This, combined with a diverse range of attractions, from historical sites to natural landscapes, has helped solidify Vietnam’s position as a must-visit destination.
Despite ongoing challenges in the post-pandemic recovery of the Asia-Pacific region, Vietnam has managed to stand out as a success story. Its proactive approach to tourism development and strategic policy adjustments have positioned it well for sustained growth in the coming years.
With continued investment in infrastructure, marketing, and visitor experience, Vietnam is poised to maintain its momentum and further strengthen its presence on the global tourism stage.
