Vietnam

Vietnam’s parliament has unanimously elected Communist Party Secretary General To Lam as State President, consolidating power in a single leader for the first time in decades. In a concurrent leadership shift, the former central bank governor was appointed Prime Minister. The new administration has pledged to pursue a high-growth model driven by digital transformation and science, targeting annual economic growth of at least 10% through 2030 while maintaining Vietnam’s "Bamboo Diplomacy" in foreign relations

Hue is set to open the Thuan An sea-crossing bridge by late Apr, marking the completion of a 4-year, 2.4 trillion VND project that stands as the longest of its kind in the central coastal region. The 20-metre-wide bridge and its 5.3km road network will link key economic zones to the East-West Economic Corridor, facilitating trade with Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos while fostering a new 1,500-hectare beach urban zone

The Ministry of Finance has proposed exempting various aviation and maritime administrative fees from 1 Apr 2026 until the end of the year to offset volatile fuel costs. The measures target maritime safety and port fees alongside aviation licensing and registration, though service charges in airfares remain unaffected. The ministry estimates the measures could reduce State budget revenues by over $142 million USD, with the maritime sector accounting for roughly $133 million USD and aviation about $8.7 million USD

According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, in Q1 2026: Vietnam welcomed 6.76 million international visitors (+12.4% YoY) Air travel accounted for 82.3% of total arrivals, followed by land routes at 15.5% and sea routes at 2.2% China and South Korea remained the 2 largest source markets, with 1.4 million and 1.3 million visitors, respectively, accounting for around 40% of Vietnam's total international arrivals

According to Agoda, 35% of Vietnamese travellers prioritise culinary experiences when choosing a destination, ranking Vietnam as Asia's second most food-motivated market behind Taiwan (47%). This reflects a regional shift where gastronomy has risen to the third most important travel motivator, with Vietnamese tourists primarily visiting Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, and China to explore local flavours. Vietnamese travellers outrank those from South Korea (34%) in their focus on food, seeking everything from street food to Michelin-starred dining

According to the National Statistics Office, in Q1 2026: Vietnam's gross domestic product was +7.83% YoY, but was below the 8.46% level recorded in Q4 2025 Consumer prices were +4.65% YoY in Mar 2026, driven largely by a 10.81% surge in transport costs Q1 saw a trade deficit of $3.64 billion USD, with exports at $122.93 billion USD (+19.1%) and imports at $126.57 billion USD (+27.0%) Growth in industrial production was +6.9% in Mar, a slowdown compared to the 8.6% growth seen in Mar 2025 Quarterly retail sales were +10.9%, while rising fuel costs have forced domestic airlines to scale back operations Realised foreign investment inflows were +9.1% to $5.41 billion USD in Q1 Future investment pledges were +42.9% to $15.2 billion USD The PM said that the government is maintaining a growth target of at least 10% for 2026, though he acknowledge this is under significant pressure

Starting 3 Apr 2026, Chinese travellers can use the Alipay e-wallet to scan VIETQRGlobal codes across Vietnam, facilitating real-time transactions between the Yuan and the VND through Vietcombank’s settlement infrastructure. This initiative by NAPAS and Ant International provides local SMEs with a simple digital payment method without the need for complex POS systems. While already active for several regional neighbours, the network is set to expand further with reciprocal services allowing Vietnamese residents to use domestic banking apps for QR payments when visiting China

According to the authorities' statement at the Government’s press conference on 4 Apr, Vietnam has secured sufficient fuel to meet domestic demand through Apr 2026, supported by 3.2 million cubic metres of Mar imports and a 10% output increase at the Dung Quat refinery. Authorities are implementing long-term contingency plans, including budget advances for the fuel price stabilisation fund and the expansion of E10 biofuel. Simultaneously, the government reaffirmed there will be no power shortages during the dry season, with 2026 electricity output projected at 350 billion kWh to accommodate an estimated 7.9% rise in annual demand

According to the National Statistics Office: In Mar 2026, Vietnam welcomed nearly 2.1 million visitors, +1.3% YoY In Q1 2026, Europe emerged as the fastest-growing region with over 1.23 million visitors, +156% YoY, fuelled by a 294.5% surge in Russian visitors (367,170 visitors) Tourist arrivals in India and the Philippines were both +169% YoY, while Indonesia was +44% Other regions, including the Americas and Oceania, saw 403,175 and 189,670 visitors respectively Package tour prices rose by 0.81% due to increased transportation and service costs, including a 1.36% rise for outbound tours and a 0.72% increase for domestic tour

HCMC plans to develop a 100-150 hectare film studio complex and a digital-led Vietnam Music Museum. Tasked with addressing a critical shortage of international-standard venues, the municipal government is exploring a venture capital-model development fund and repurposing public land to support its 17,670 cultural enterprises and 97,000 workers. Another project is the implementation of the “school theatre”, aimed at cultivating young audiences and promoting aesthetic education in schools

According to the latest report by STR: From Jan-Feb 2026, Phu Quoc's room occupancy exceeded 90%, surpassing established regional hubs like Phuket (over 80%) and Bali (60%), outpacing other major Vietnamese markets like Da Nang (70%) and Nha Trang/Cam Ranh (over 60%) Revenue per available room (RevPAR) surged from under $50 USD in 2024 to $160-$170 USD in 2026 Growth is attributed to a "night-time economy" and a large-scale entertainment ecosyste

According to the Director of the National Statistics Office (NSO), Vietnam’s economy expanded by 7.83% in Q1 2026, driven by an 8.18% rise in services and a 9.73% surge in manufacturing. While final consumption jumped 8.45%, foreign trade activity also picked up sharply, with exports and imports climbing 19.85% and 24.27% respectively. Authorities have warned of intensifying pressure in Q2 as Middle East tensions threaten to drive up oil prices and disrupt global supply chains

According to the Southern Regional Hydrometeorological Center, Southern Vietnam is experiencing a persistent heatwave, with temperatures in HCMC and Dong Nai forecast to remain between 35-37 degree Celsius, often peaking above 37. Driven by a combination of high-pressure systems and stalled wind movement, the conditions are exacerbated by low relative humidity (30%-45%), increasing the risk of both forest fires and heat-related illnesses like dehydration and heatstroke. Meteorologists expect the hot weather to continue without relief for at least the next 5 days

This Apr, HCMC will break ground on 2 major infrastructure projects worth over $3.7 billion USD to coincide with the 30 Apr public holiday. These developments include a 6km metro line linking the central business district to the Thu Thiêm financial area and a 42km expressway connecting the future Long Thanh International Airport to coastal tourism hubs. With the city’s first metro line already operational and having attracted $2.9 billion USD in FDI in Q1 2026, authorities aim to use these integrated transport links to support global supply chains and meet up to 60% of travel demand by 2045

HCMC aims to finalise a policy by late Apr to provide free travel across 135 intra-city bus routes, requiring an annual allocation of around $280 million USD. This plan, which excludes inter-provincial lines, represents an increase from the current 1.5 trillion VND annual subsidy and is expected to drive a 30% rise in ridership compared to 2025 levels. Authorities plan to increase service frequency and employ technology-based monitoring for transparent budget management. In 2025, HCMC's public transport network carried nearly 97 million passengers, +6% YoY, with further growth recorded in early 2026

An Giang province plans to reclaim around 4,500 hectares of sea to build artificial islands along Vietnam's southwestern coastline, with construction aimed to begin by 2027. Formed from a mid-2025 merger, the province has designated 4 development clusters, including a 2,300-hectare international entertainment and free trade zone around Phu Quoc, a 1,100-hectare commercial hub in Rach Gia, a 900-hectare cultural heritage corridor, and a 200-hectare maritime transit hub. The project prioritises green development and renewable energy

Quang Ninh province is establishing concerts as recurring tourist attractions to develop its cultural industries. A free public concert on 11 Apr at October 30 Square will mark the opening of the 17th National Radio Festival, with organisers expecting up to 50,000 spectators. The event will feature a 3-chapter journey blending folk and political motifs with electronic music, rap, and pop, supported by laser technology

Passengers are urged to book early for the 30 Apr-1 May holidays as volatile fuel costs and route reductions drive up fares. While the Vietnam Airlines group is expanding capacity to 1.12 million seats (+15.5% YoY), several domestic routes from Hai Phong and HCMC will be suspended from 1 Apr to manage costs. Ticket prices on major routes like Hanoi-Nha Trang have already risen by 10-20%, with peak fares reaching 7 million VND. Internationally, Vietnam Airlines planned nearly 1,700 flights (+13% YoY) with close to 390,000 seats (+13% YoY)

Sun World Vung Tau opened as a 15-hectare beachfront destination within the Blanca City development, featuring the Aqua Adventure Water Park designed in partnership with WhiteWater. The park hosts 32 slides and several Asia-first attractions, including the Mystic Ocean Voyage (the world's longest mini water coaster) and the Mekong Water Battle (a 1,800 metre multi-level play structure)

A new museum dedicated to war memories and aspirations for peace is to be built in Quang Tri province, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026, with a 1 trillion VND investment from the National Target Programme for Cultural Development. The museum will use interactive exhibitions and historical artefacts to contrast the tragedy of the 1954-1975 conflict with contemporary messages of reconciliation

A sea tourism route connecting Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay in Hai Phong city was officially launched on 1 Apr. Tickets for the route officially go on sale on 4 Apr. The route is expected to bring an additional 5,000-6,000 daily visitors and over 50 overnight cruise vessels to Ha Long Bay. All vessels must comply with specific standards, with oversight from border guards and waterway police

On 31 Mar, Can Tho city and T&T Group signed a cooperation agreement to develop large-scale infrastructure, energy, and urban projects. Central to the agreement is a 17,000ha aerotropolis complex featuring industrial and logistics hubs, alongside a 3,400ha Olympic sports and training zone. The collaboration also focuses on creating a renewable energy ecosystem and modernising the agricultural sector through high-tech, digital solutions. Additionally, T&T Group will explore urban developments in areas such as O Mon and Vo Van Kiet

Following an emergency directive on 31 Mar, Vietnamese authorities have placed cities and provinces on high alert for violent thunderstorms, hail, and whirlwinds typical of the Apr-May seasonal transition. Recent storms on 29-30 Mar already claimed 4 lives, injured 9, and damaged 6,551 homes, alongside destruction to schools and nearly 250 hectares of crops. The National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting warns that a weak cold air mass clashing with hot, humid air will trigger further atmospheric instability, particularly in northern and north-central regions. Consequently, the Vietnam Disaster and Dyke Management Authority (VDDMA) has mandated 24/7 monitoring of dykes and reservoirs

In Apr, Can Tho will host 2 major cultural events, including the Southern Traditional Cake Festival (26 Apr-1 May) and the fifth annual book fair (15-21 Apr). The cake festival at Binh Thuy Square expects 1 million visitors and will feature up to 250 stalls showcasing regional delicacies, alongside cooking classes led by over 100 artisans. Meanwhile, the book fair at Tao Dan Park will display thousands of titles and rare collections from 20 publishers

Hue launched its Summer Festival 2026 (Apr-Jun). The city is hosting signature events at the Imperial Citadel, including "Royal Banquet Nights" and free "Mystical Imperial Palace" evening tours between 25 Apr - 2 May. In Q1 2026, the city welcomed over 1.9 million visitors (+31.3% YoY), with international arrivals exceeding 843,000 (+26.7%), and domestic visitors reaching over 1.05 million (+35.2%). Total revenue reached over $170 million USD (+71.4% YoY). In 2026, the city aims to attract 7-7.5 million visitors and generate 15 trillion VND in revenue

The Ministry of Finance proposed extending tax relief on gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel until 30 Jun 2026 to curb inflation and stabilise the economy. The draft resolution suggests maintaining both the environmental protection tax and special consumption tax at , preventing a return to standard rates of up to 2,000 VNA per litre and 10% respectively. Additionally, the ministry is seeking a VAT exemption for these fuels, which currently account for over 7% of base prices

Construction of the $953 million USD Nha Trang-Da Lat expressway is set to begin on 19 May 2026, with completion scheduled for 2028. The 80.8km, 4-lane highway will replace the landslide-prone Khanh Le Pass, halving travel time between the 2 cities from nearly 4 to under 2 hours. The project is developed as a public-private partnership, led by Khanh Hoa Province, featuring design speeds of 80-100 kph and connect with the North-South Expressway

The Lao National Assembly has granted in-principle approval for a build-operate-transfer (BOT) railway project connecting Thakhek township in Khammouane Province to the Mu Gia border gate in Vietnam’s Quang Tri Province

Vietnam welcomed over 482,000 Filipino arrivals in 2025. While Filipino tourists show a strong preference for destinations like Da Nang, Sa Pa, and Phu Quoc, the number of Vietnamese travellers to the Philippines has recently declined due to regional competition. Both nations are finalising a Tourism Cooperation Programme for 2026-2029, providing a legal framework for two-way exchanges. The Philippines is considering opening a representative office in Vietnam and will host the ASEAN Tourism Forum in 2026

On 29 Mar, Gia Lai Province signed cooperation agreements for the 2026-2030 period with 4 southern Lao provinces (Attapeu, Champasack, Saravane, and Sekong) and 3 northeastern Cambodian provinces (Preah Vihear, Ratanakiri, and Stung Treng). 15 enterprises from Gia Lai have invested over $595.3 million USD in southern Laos, focusing on rubber, timber, bananas, and services. Cooperation funding for 2021-2025 totalled nearly $4.4 million USD, including 60 billion VND for friendship projects and 26 billion for scholarships. Similarly, in Cambodia, 15 firms are implementing projects worth over $913 million USD, with trade turnover exceeding $815 million USD. Key to these regional links is the Le Thanh International Border Gate, which will adopt a "digital border gate" model by mid-2026. The province aims to transition from memoranda to substantive annual plans focusing on large-scale agriculture, infrastructure via National Highway 19, and enhanced border security

The Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration (VIMAWA) requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to negotiate with Iran for the safe passage of 19 Vietnamese-owned vessels currently operating in the Middle East. The proposal outlines a 3-tier priority system for transit through the Strait of Hormuz, focusing on Vietnamese-flagged ships, vessels with Vietnamese crews, and those transporting essential crude oil and petroleum. Beyond physical safety, VIMAWA is seeking an official transit notice from Iranian authorities to help shipping companies secure war-risk insurance, which is currently being denied

Effective from 27 Mar until 15 Apr, the Vietnamese trade ministry has slashed the environmental protection tax on gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel to zero. The tax waiver is expected to reduce petrol prices by around 26%, dropping 95-octane petrol to 24,332 VND per litre, and lower diesel costs by over 15% to 35,440 VND per litre

Cambodia has temporarily suspended road traffic fines to ease the financial burden on motorists facing soaring fuel prices linked to the Middle East conflict. While fines are paused, traffic police remain deployed to manage congestion and provide road law education, though they will persist with nighttime breathalyser tests and weapon inspections. Since the start of the Middle East conflict, regular petrol, diesel, and LPG prices jumping by 41.5%, 84%, and 60% respectively

On 27 Mar, a grand ceremony was held in Bac Ninh province to celebrate the opening of the “Coming to the Bac Ninh Heritage Land” Festival and receive 2 UNESCO honours. The craft of Dong Ho folk woodblock printing was officially inscribed on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, while the Yen Tu-Vinh Nghiem-Con Son-Kiep Bac Complex was announced as a World Cultural Heritage site. Bac Ninh committed to an action programme focused on artisan support, digital inventorying, and inter-provincial coordination with Quang Ninh and Hai Phong to balance conservation with sustainable tourism

The Hue Monuments Conservation Centre announced the “Mystical Imperial Palace” programme, offering free nighttime entry to the Hue Imperial City from 25-28 Apr. The event recreates the Nguyen Dynasty court through a blend of traditional ceremonies and modern technology, including 3D projections and virtual reality. Visitors can experience a "Royal Market", a fusion "ao dai" and hanbok fashion show, and military martial arts demonstrations, alongside national orchid exhibitions in the imperial gardens

On 26 Mar, the Vietnam Railways Corporation launched the upgraded “Central Heritage Connection Journey” train and designated Hue Railway Station as an official tourist site. The refreshed service features 12 upgraded carriages, including a royal-court-inspired VIP carriage and a community space showcasing local cuisine and culture. The train offers modern amenities such as 180-degree rotating seats and LCD screens to enhance the scenic journey across the Hai Van Pass. Following a successful 2-year period serving 440,000 passengers, the service now offers tickets ranging from 180,000 - 500,000 VND

From 2-5 Apr, the HCMC's Department of Tourism will organise the 22nd Travel Fair, themed “Vibrant Summer Fest", at September 23 Park. The event features nearly 130 booths from over 100 travel agencies, hotels, and airlines, alongside a dedicated “2026 Tourism Job Fair” to connect businesses with human resources

From 24-30 Mar, the Bac Ninh Trade and Tourism Fair 2026 is hosted at the Provincial Culture and Tourism Promotion Centre, featuring over 200 booths involving enterprises, cooperatives, and artisans from across the country. The fair celebrates local craftsmanship through live demonstrations and the official honouring of 5 local artisans

According to a report by VnEconomy, HCMC welcomed nearly 20 million tourists in Q1 2026, including 5.25 million in Jan and 4.32 million during the 9-day Lunar New Year holiday. Domestic tourists made up the majority of arrivals. The city aims to attract 11 million international and 50 million domestic travellers by the end of 2026, with total tourism revenue for 2026 projected at around $13.1 billion USD

Vietnam is facing an unseasonably early heatwave from 30 Mar - 2 Apr 2026, with temperatures in northern and central regions expected to peak above 38 degrees C. This spike, which includes highs of 36 degrees C in Hanoi and sustained heat in HCMC, has heightened the risk of forest and industrial fires while placing pressure on the national power grid and water resources. The extreme weather is disrupting labour productivity in key sectors like manufacturing and construction

On 25 Mar, Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade implemented 2 rapid fuel price adjustments to manage extreme volatility caused by the Middle East conflict. After an initial morning surge saw diesel prices skyrocket 105% to 39,660 VND and petrol jump 68% to 33,840 VND, a second revision 14 hours later brought costs down. Diesel was ultimately set at a rate just under double its pre-war Feb level, while 95-octane petrol settled at around 49% higher than before the conflict began

Following the official visit of the Vietnamese Prime Minister to Moscow on 25 Mar, the Russian President has instructed the Russian Foreign Ministry to consider a visa-free travel scheme for Vietnamese citizens. Originally focused on organised tour groups, the proposal may expand to a full visa exemption to address a tourism imbalance, as only 15,000 Vietnamese visited Russia in 2025 compared to 690,000 Russians visiting Vietnam. This initiative seeks to reciprocate Vietnam’s existing 45-day visa-free policy for Russians which remains in effect until Mar 2028. From Jan-Feb 2026, nearly 250,000 Russian tourists visited Vietnam (+300% YoY)

Driven by soaring oil prices and supply instability from the U.S.-Iran conflict, Vietjet has cancelled numerous flights for late Mar and Apr, with the Incheon-Phu Quoc route being completely suspended from 8 Apr-1 May. Other impacted routes include Incheon to Nha Trang and Da Nang, and Busan to Nha Trang. Vietnam Airlines has also suspended some Apr-May flights on Incheon-Hanoi and Incheon-HCMC routes. Air Busan is reducing flights from Busan to Da Nang, Guam, and Cebu starting in Apr. While tickets are eligible for full refunds, passengers are left responsible for non-refundable accommodation and car rental penalties. Smishing disguised as flight cancellation notices has also been detected. These messages use tactics to trick recipients into clicking malicious links that lead to fake websites designed to harvest personal and financial information

Sun Group and Marriott International signed a strategic agreement to develop 10 hotels and resorts in Phu Quoc and Vung Tau, adding nearly 4,500 rooms between 2026 and 2030. The portfolio introduces 8 brands, including the Vietnamese debuts of W Hotels and Moxy Hotels, alongside established names like Westin and Le Meridien. This expansion is primarily focused on Phu Quoc to strengthen the island’s infrastructure and capacity ahead of APEC 2027

Vietnam and Russia have signed an agreement to build the Ninh Thuan 1 nuclear power plant, featuring 2 Russian-designed reactors with a combined capacity of approximately 2,400MW. Vietnam is pushing to have the facility online by 2031 at the latest. Russia's LNG producer, Novatek, also signed a preliminary deal to supply liquified natural gas to Vietnam. While Vietnam’s 2 refineries meet 70% of domestic needs, over 80% of its imported crude oil originates from the Middle East. Vietnam is seeking alternative crude sources from Japan, South Korea, Angola, and Algeria. The government has initiated fuel-saving plans, including a shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) and the accelerated use of biofuels

From 24-26 Mar, Food & Hospitality Vietnam 2026 will be hosted at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC) in HCMC, featuring 400 exhibitors from 36 countries and territories, including 19 international pavilions. The event is organised by Informa Markets Vietnam, and is co-located with HOTELEX Vietnam. The event hosts the Vietnam Culinary Challenge, Vietnam Barista Competition, and the debut of the Vietnam Housekeeping Competition. The exhibition is expected to attract around 17,000 trade visitors

The Hanoi-Quang Ninh high-speed railway is expected to be operational in 2028, reducing the journey between Hanoi and Halong Bay from 3 hours to 30 minutes. The fully electrified line will reach top speeds of 350 km/h, linking Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Hai Phong, and Quang Ninh across 5 stations from Co Loa to Tuan Chau. The stop in Quang Ninh is expected to boost China connectivity, since it shares a land and sea border with the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region

From 27-29 Mar, the Gia Lai Culinary Festival 2026 will be hosted at Nguyen Tat Thanh Square in Gia Lai, featuring 51 booths across 5 zones, showcasing regional and international dishes alongside 20 stalls of certified OCOP products. The festival opened on 27 March with a live cooking demonstration of signature Central Highlands dishes and an official ceremony for 150 delegates

From 9-12 Apr, the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) 2026 will be held in Hanoi, focusing on "Digital Transformation & Green Growth". The event is organised by the Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA), featuring 450 booths from 15 countries and a specialised AI exhibition space. The event prioritises B2B networking, with the first day reserved for nearly 400 domestic and international firms, while expecting 80,000 public visitors for discounted travel deals

Hanoi’s Temple of Literature has launched a night tour that integrates traditional heritage with digital technology, including 3D projection mapping, virtual reality calligraphy, and artistic lighting. Visitors can engage in hands-on activities, such as traditional printmaking and calligraphy with a master in a recreated historic classroom, while viewing illuminated landmarks like the Khue Van Cac pavilion

From 20-22 Mar, the Pho Festival 2026 will be held in Ninh Binh, featuring around 50 booths representing northern, central, and southern regional variations of Pho. Participants include artisans, businesses, researchers, and food enthusiasts from Vietnam and abroad. Visitors can watch live demos of Pho in the making, craft village exhibits, and panel discussions

On 20 Mar, Vietnam and Laos signed a 50 million-litre fuel supply agreement to address a severe energy crisis in Laos caused by a 25% cut in Thai exports. The shortage had forced 1,068 Lao petrol stations to close and led to emergency measures, including a shortened 3-day school week. Vietnam has also authorised the transit of fuel from third countries and committed to a broader strategic partnership involving cross-border pipelines, storage facilities, and increased electricity imports from Laos

On 20 Mar 2026, the Vietnamese government implemented an overnight price hike, raising 95-octane petrol by 20% to 30,690 VND per litre and diesel by nearly 34% to 33,420 VND. This surge has pushed fuel costs over 50% higher since late Feb and prompted the Prime Minister to seek support from nations including Qatar and Japan. While officials claim domestic supply is secure until the end of Apr, the aviation authority has warned of potential flight reductions, and residents in Hanoi are already reporting decreased traffic as motorists switch to public transport

Nghe An province is hosting the 2026 Cua Lo Tourism Festival, themed “The Sea Calls in All Seasons", aiming to transition the province from a summer-centric model to a year-round tourism destination. By distributing activities across 4 seasons, ranging from spring fishing rituals and peak summer music concerts to winter New Year countdowns, the initiative aims to attract 5 million visitors by 2026. This plan involves significant infrastructure upgrades, including a cable car to Ngư Island and international-standard sports facilities, while integrating local OCOP culinary specialities and cultural heritage sites

Vietnam has emerged as the leading destination for South Korean "micro-trips," a trend prioritising experiences with minimal travel time and cost. According to data from Yanolja Research (a RoK-based travel technology company), the average Korean traveller budgets around $971 USD per overseas excursion. Vietnam's popularity is attributed to a convenient 5-hour flight time and the availability of luxury infrastructure at mid-range prices in locations such as Da Nang and Phu Quoc

The Ministry of Construction ordered a tightening of oversight on transport fares following unpredictable fuel price rises linked to Middle East tensions. The Minister mandated that transport operators submit accurate price declarations to ensure fares reflect actual costs rather than exploiting market volatility. To protect household budgets and production, agencies such as the Civil Aviation Authority and Vietnam Railways must monitor price impacts, while local authorities are urged to improve efficiency by reducing empty vehicle runs and accelerating a transition to electric and clean-energy vehicles

The 24th Kazakhstan International Tourism Fair (KITF) is scheduled for 22-24 Apr 2026 in Almaty, serving as a premier forum for Vietnamese enterprises to penetrate the Central Asian market. The 2025 edition hosted over 530 companies from 31 countries and 5,500 professional visitors. Beyond destination promotion, the fair facilitates the signing of intergovernmental agreements and MoUs through a programme of roadshows, seminars, and plenary sessions. The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism has invited local travel agencies, airlines, and authorities to participate to expand regional partnerships and showcase Vietnamese tourism products

The Hanoi-Quang Ninh high-speed railway is a 120km electrified double-track line designed for speeds of up to 350kph, connecting Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Hai Phong, and Quang Ninh through 5 stations. It is scheduled for groundbreaking on 12 Apr. The project is being delivered via a public-private partnership with a total investment of around $5.8 billion USD. With an additional 10.27 trillion VND allocated from the State budget for land clearance, the rail link is expected to be operational by 2028

At a tourism conference in Kuala Lumpur on 18 Mar, the Mekong Delta was promoted as a high-priority destination for the Malaysian market, which contributed nearly 574,000 arrivals to Vietnam in 2025. Officials emphasised that providing halal-certified cuisine is the essential "key" to attracting Malaysian Muslim travellers. The event concluded with the signing of new cooperation agreements between regional businesses and Malaysian partners to develop fresh travel routes and improve human resource training for the anticipated increase in visitors

The construction of the 5.58km Ben Thanh-Thu Thiem section of Metro Line No. 2 is scheduled to begin in Apr 2026, featuring 6 underground stations and an estimated investment of $1.25 billion USD. This project is developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model with Truong Hai Group (Thaco), serving as a strategic corridor connecting Tan Son Nhat International Airport with the future Long Thanh International Airport via the city centre. This section is a critical link in the wider 60-km Metro Line No. 2, which includes the Ben Thanh-Tham Luong stretch and the planned 42km Thu Thiem-Long Thanh railway

The Tourism Information Centre of the Vietnam National Tourism Administration has launched a multimedia e-brochure to promote rural tourism and traditional craft villages to domestic and international visitors. The publication is available in 4 editions across both Vietnamese and English, covering community, eco-tourism, and organic agricultural co-operatives. The brochure features interactive elements such as voice narration and authentic ambient audio, providing a multi-sensory experience designed to showcase One Commune One Product (OCOP) items and rural life

Hanoi’s museums are undergoing a digital transformation to modernise cultural heritage through interactive screens, VR systems, and 3D mapping. The Hanoi Museum recently reopened with multimedia thematic displays, while the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum has seen a 300% increase in visitors since adopting tools like cinemagraphs. Other institutions, such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the National Museum of History, are using QR codes, 3D models, and multilingual audio guides. Experts note that museums still face challenges regarding funding and technical expertise, emphasising that technology must support the academic value of original artefacts

During AHICE Southeast Asia, which was held in Singapore, JLL Senior Vice-President for Advisory in Asia noted a shift in growth sectors in luxury hospitality from Singapore and Bangkok to emerging markets in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Hyatt Hotels Corporation’s Regional Vice-President for Development in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines said luxury travel is resilient and a prime segment for industrial growth. He added that they are seeing rapid growth in travellers from within and outside Asia. Mordor Intelligence reports the luxury Asia Pacific hotel market will generate around $37 billion USD in revenues by the end of 2026, up from $34 billion USD in 2025, and revenue will reach $58 billion USD over the next 5 years. 60% of Hyatt’s portfolio in the Asia Pacific is in the luxury premium segment, and they plan to open 90 luxury lifestyle properties. Vice-President for Development in Southeast Asia and Korea for IHG Hotels & Resorts said that based on statistics, 80% of luxury travellers are going to be millennials, Gen Z, or Gen Alpha by 2030

Da Nang is targeting the development of its southern coastline, particularly Thang An Commune, to utilise the remaining half of the city’s 200km coastal stretch. Under a master plan reaching to 2035, the area south of the Thu Bon River is being transformed into a green, smart urban pole featuring high-end MICE and golf tourism alongside traditional craft villages. Strategic transport upgrades, including the Vo Chi Cong coastal road and future urban rail and BRT systems, aim to connect the city centre with Hoi An and Chu Lai

The People’s Committee of Quang Tri province approved the pilot tourism product "Experiencing Nature and Exploring the Cultural Life of the Ma Coong Community" in Thuong Trach Commune, with Eastern Sky Trading and Tourism Co Ltd entrusted with its trial operation for 12 months. The tour offers one-day or two-day itineraries along a route from Phong Nha to Con Roang Village and Khe Sa Campsite. The one‑day tour allows a maximum of 20 people per trip and no more than 60 per day, while the two‑day option is restricted to 15 visitors per tour and 30 per day. Participation is limited to those aged 16 and above in good health

The Prime Minister mandated that fuel shortages must be prevented at all costs despite volatility from the Middle East conflict. Under a directive issued on 16 Mar, petrol prices will be managed through market mechanisms balanced by State-led stabilisation, with proposals for tax and fee reductions due by 20 Mar 2026. The government has threatened strict legal action against hoarding or price manipulation and may deploy State budget resources if the military conflict persists

The Embassy of the Czech Republic and the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) are partnering to establish a standardised trail-marking system to unlock the potential of Vietnam’s mountainous terrain, which covers three-quarters of the country. The initiative involves a pilot project and technical training for forest rangers and volunteers to ensure the long-term, independent maintenance of routes. The programme aims to transform informal trekking into a regulated eco-tourism sector that complies with national forestry protection laws while catering to the rising global demand for adventure travel

The Vietnam-Spain Cooperation Forum recently convened in Madrid to advance a strategic partnership focused on innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable tourism. In 2025, around 97,442 Spanish tourists visited Vietnam. The Vietnamese Ambassador said that Vietnam is seeking to learn from Spain’s expertise in high-end, sustainable, and "smart" tourism management

Ratanakiri provincial authorities in Cambodia are preparing to open 4 new border checkpoints, including 2 with Laos and two with Vietnam, to boost cross-border trade, investment, and tourism. The priority Lao crossings include sites at border markers 101, 102, and 141, linking Veun Sai district with Attapeu province, while the Vietnamese checkpoints are planned for Nhang commune and border marker 6 near the "Dragon Tail" tri-border area. While technical agreements have been reached for the Vietnamese side and construction budget allocation is pending, land demarcation is currently underway for the Lao infrastructure

Vietnam’s luxury hospitality sector is experiencing a surge. High-end hotel performance has exceeded pre-pandemic peaks, with five-star properties commanding average rates of $170-188 USD at 75-80% occupancy, while the four-star segment maintains rates of $110-130 USD and 72-78% occupancy. In Hanoi, five-star rooms average $160 USD (70-75% occupancy). This growth, driven by the expanding MICE segment and relaxed visa policies, has attracted major brands like Accor and IHG, with Hanoi alone expecting 1,300 new international rooms in 2026 and 4,000 by 2028

In a high-level meeting in Hanoi, the Vietnamese Foreign Minister and their Chinese counterpart held the first ministerial-level strategic dialogue to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership. Both sides agreed to build a "Vietnam-China community with a shared future" by accelerating strategic connectivity and increasing Chinese investment in high-tech and industrial sectors. The Minister specifically proposed expanding Vietnamese agricultural exports to China and increasing scholarships in basic science, while the China side affirmed China’s support for General Secretary To Lam’s leadership

The Quang Ninh Culture, Sports and Tourism Week 2026 will run from 25 Apr-3 May, featuring 14 major events designed to attract 50,000 spectators. The centrepiece, Ha Long Carnaval 2026 on 30 Apr, will showcase 64 parade floats and international troupes alongside a tourism vessel light show on the bay. The week integrates heritage and modern entertainment, including the Yen Tu summer art programme, hot-air ballooning, and an international food street

According to the 2026 Henley Passport Index, Vietnam’s passport has climbed six places to rank 84th globally, granting citizens easier access to 48 destinations. This improved mobility includes visa-free entry to 23 countries, including most of Southeast Asia, Chile, and Panama, alongside 25 destinations offering visa-on-arrival or electronic travel authorisation

On 15 Mar, over 73 million Vietnamese voters will cast ballots for the 16th National Assembly and People’s Councils for the 2026-2031 term. The National Election Council has confirmed that preparations are complete across 72,195 polling stations, where voter lists have been cross-referenced with the national resident database to ensure accuracy

A high-level Chinese delegation, including the Chinese Foreign, Defence, and Public Security Ministers, will visit Vietnam from 15-17 Mar to launch a new "3+3" strategic dialogue. The officials will discuss political security and crime prevention while building on 45 bilateral agreements signed in 2025

According to the Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, Hanoi is accelerating the 120km Ring Road 4 and a new link to Gia Binh Airport to bolster regional connectivity, with parallel roads for the ring road project scheduled to open in Q2 2026. The city is currently urging Bac Ninh Province to resolve local clearance delays for the airport route and requesting government support to manage high demand for construction materials. Authorities are coordinating with the power and railway sectors to synchronise infrastructure and avoid wasteful, overlapping construction near the 500kV transmission lines

According to a survey released ahead of the 2026 World Tourism Fair in Paris, Vietnam has emerged as one of the top 5 most searched destinations for French travellers, contributing to Asia’s record 28% preference rating