Vietnam

On 29 Apr, the Vietnamese Ambassador and Venezuelan Tourism Minister met to discuss strengthening bilateral tourism cooperation through eco-tourism, digital transformation, and community-based initiatives. Both nations aim to leverage their traditional friendship to develop inter-regional tour routes and explore potential air links. The Minister confirmed she will attend the 20th International Travel Expo HCMC from 27-29 Aug 2026, while the Vietnamese mission in Venezuela will continue facilitating connections between investors and travel firms to promote both countries' natural and cultural heritage

On 29 Apr, HCMC broke ground on the $1.39 billion USD Ben Thanh-Thu Thiem metro line, a 6-km underground route featuring a crossing beneath the Saigon River. A key component of Metro Line 2, the project includes 6 stations, with Ham Nghi set to become the city’s deepest at 33 metres. The line will utilise fully automated GoA4 technology and is designed to create a strategic transport hub at Thu Thiem, connecting the urban network to the national high-speed railway and Long Thanh International Airport. The project aims for a high level of construction localisation, with the full line targeted for completion by 2030

Phu Tho province welcomed nearly 6.5 million visitors during the 2026 Hung Kings Festival (+12% YoY), driving a five-fold surge in accommodation searches, according to Agoda. The festival featured a mix of traditional rituals and new experiences, such as night tours and fireworks, attracting a diverse demographic of families and young travellers who extended their stays for wellness and eco-tourism

Phu Quoc is consolidating 5 major coastal subdivision plans totalling over 10,000 hectares to establish itself as an internationally competitive tourism hub. The strategy prioritises green growth and clean energy while strictly limiting building density to avoid coastal "concretisation." The development ranges from the 4,430-hectare Ong Lang - Cua Can eco-hub to a northwestern zone featuring casinos and golf courses. A central requirement is the protection of public beach access and ecological corridors

With physical tours of Son Doong Cave fully booked until the end of 2027, the new Phong Nha Cave Exploration Information Centre in Quang Tri Province launched a 500,000 VND virtual reality alternative. The tour features 8K-quality footage with a 180-degree view. A 5D seating system simulates environmental conditions such as wind, mist, vibrations, and warmth from sunlight. Displays include documents, images, films, hand-drawn maps, and specialised equipment covering 35 years of exploration in the cave system

According to Travel Agent Finder, in Mar 2026, Vietnam entered the top 10 most searched destinations by Australians for the first time. Expedia reported that accommodation searches for Nha Trang and Da Nang rose by 65% YoY, while Phu Quoc saw a 45% increase. Growth in Vietnam's coastal areas has outperformed traditional beach hotspots in Indonesia and Thailand. In Q1 2026, Australia ranked among Vietnam's top 10 source markets, alongside Mainland China, South Korea, the U.S., and Japan

According to the municipal Department of Tourism, from Jan-Apr 2026, Hanoi welcomed 12.14 million visitors (+20.9% YoY) and generated $1.93 billion USD (+22.8% YoY) in revenue. In Apr 2026 alone, Hanoi welcomed 3.09 million arrivals (+13.3% YoY), including around 780,000 international visitors (+6.9%), with hotel occupancy rising to nearly 70% (up over 3pp from 2025)

On 27 Apr, the Chinese Cultural Centre held the "Xinjiang is a Wonderful Land" event in Hanoi to showcase the region's Silk Road relics and diverse landscapes. The programme aims to attract more Vietnamese visitors through cultural performances and seasonal route displays. Officials noted that Vietnam remains a key source for Xinjiang, while China was a top market for Vietnam in 2025. The Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism said that Vietnam plans to host 3 tourism promotion conferences in China during 2026

HCMC is set to establish a network of 13 direct bus routes to serve Long Thanh International Airport, which is scheduled to open by the end of 2026. This three-phase rollout begins in Q3 2026 with express shuttles linking the new airport to Saigon Bus Station and Tan Son Nhat. Phase 2 in 2027 will add 5 routes, including connections from Binh Duong, the New Eastern Bus Station, and corridors linking Tan Son Nhat airport with Thu Thiem and Vung Tau. The network will use vehicles ranging from 9 to 80 seats and focus on major transit hubs

The 22nd annual Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange will take place from 22-24 May, centred at An Hoi Sculpture Park and the Old Quarter. Visitors can experience Japanese traditions such as Bon Odori dancing, tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and origami, alongside displays of Hizen porcelain and a Shuinsen merchant ship

Hanoi will waive fares across its entire subsidised public transit network for 7 days during 2 upcoming holiday periods. The exemption applies to 128 bus routes and both the Cat Linh-Ha Dong and Nhon-Cau Giay metro lines from 25-27 Apr and 30 Apr-3 May. Passengers can obtain complimentary tickets on board buses, at station counters, or via the metro app

Vietnam has introduced its first national technical standard for hiking and trekking, triggered by a rise in mountain accidents. The framework mandates comprehensive risk assessments, route grading, and enhanced qualifications for guides to shift industry competition from price to safety. The standard also establishes a "safety value chain" involving equipment and transport providers while enforcing "leave no trace" principles to protect the environment

The Vietnamese Ministry of Health is developing a medical tourism strategy to transform the domestic market from $700 million USD in 2024 to $4 billion USD by 2033. By piloting integrated hospital-resort complexes in hubs like Hanoi and HCMC, the initiative aims to retain 40,000 citizens who seek treatment abroad annually while reclaiming the 300,000 international patients seen yearly pre-pandemic. Vietnam intends to compete with regional rivals like Thailand and Singapore by leveraging its high professional standards, reasonable costs, and unique "cultural exports" such as traditional indigenous medicine. Despite challenges in post-treatment recovery services, particularly in assisted reproduction, ongoing infrastructure investments and the rollout of all-inclusive packages through 2026 are expected to establish medical tourism as a vital national economic asset

During the South Korean President’s Apr visit to Hanoi, South Korean and Vietnamese entities signed over 70 deals, including a landmark pact for South Korean investment in a new nuclear plant in southern Vietnam. A standout contract saw Hyundai Rotem secure $332 million USD to supply rolling stock for HCMC’s urban rail system, while the Industrial Bank of Korea was granted a licence for a wholly owned local unit. The visit also advanced cooperation in semiconductors, biotechnology, and batteries, with Samsung in talks for a new back-end chip factory. To support these investments, the President urged Vietnamese officials to address corporate challenges such as tax refunds and rising wages driven by an influx of Chinese manufacturing

According to Agoda, domestic accommodation searches were +81% YoY for the late April-early May period. Beach tours are a top priority, with Vung Tau seeing a 101% increase in searches. Other popular nearby spots include Long Hai and Ho Tram. There is also a shift towards "green" and river-based tourism, featuring sunset cruises, vintage car tours, and plastic-free programmes. Local authorities and companies like Agoda and Vietluxtour note that tourists are prioritising convenience and comfort, utilising the city's diverse transport options, including river buses and the metro, to optimise short-distance travel during the Apr holidays

Starting 1 Jul, Hanoi will pilot a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) within Ring Road 1 to combat pollution, beginning with a 0.5 km sq core area in Hoan Kiem Ward. The project will expand in 2027 to include Cua Nam Ward before a full rollout across 26.07 km sq of the city's urban core by 2028. Under the plan, fossil-fuel motorcycles for ride-hailing will be banned, while private petrol bikes will face time-based restrictions on weekends. Strict Euro 4 emission standards and time limits will apply to light trucks, while vehicles over 3.5 tonnes will be prohibited entirely. To support this transition, the city will deploy ANPR camera monitoring, develop green infrastructure like electric bus fleets and charging stations, and provide support policies for residents switching to clean-energy vehicles

Infrastructure projects for the 2027 APEC summit on Phu Quoc are facing critical delays due to land clearance bottlenecks and resident reoccupations, threatening an official completion deadline of 30 April 2027. Key electrical works, such as the 110 kV transmission lines, and the DT975 10-lane highway connecting the airport to the APEC centre remain stalled by compensation disputes and complex ownership issues involving handwritten deeds. The situation is further complicated by a resettlement crisis affecting over 1,000 households built on agricultural land, who currently remain ineligible for housing support. With the dry-season construction window closing and nearly 912 hectares still requiring reclamation, local authorities are urgently seeking special government mechanisms and investor funding to resolve these disputes

According to a report from Ken Research, Vietnam’s luxury tourism market reached a value of $3.2 billion USD following 5 years of consistent growth, recovering to 98% of pre-pandemic arrival levels by early 2025. This surge is driven by rising domestic disposable income, social media-fuelled demand for personalised experiences, and a reputation for safety that appeals to high-value travellers

Vietnamese lawmakers are considering doubling the tax-free revenue threshold for household businesses to $38,000 USD to alleviate pressure from rising costs and weak demand. While the Ministry of Finance expects this to reduce budget revenue by about $269 million USD, the move aims to support small traders and encourage informal businesses to formalise. Despite broad support, deputies warned of potential loopholes, such as businesses splitting operations to avoid tax, and stressed the importance of maintaining fairness against formally registered firms and salaried workers. Proposed refinements include establishing a regular review cycle, potentially raising the limit to 3 billion VND, and offering corporate tax exemptions to incentivise the transition to formal company structures

Vietnamese banks are launching cross-border QR payment services to facilitate international transactions via domestic apps. While lenders like BIDV and National Citizen Bank are accelerating infrastructure through initiatives like VietQR Pay and VIETQRGlobal, adoption is currently hindered by a limited merchant network and higher fees for formal commercial payments compared to free personal transfers. The State Bank of Vietnam has stressed the necessity of transitioning from person-to-person transfer codes to formal QR Payment standards to resolve transaction failures for foreigners and ensure regulatory compliance. Experts suggest that improving fee policies and expanding merchant acceptance, particularly in the retail and tourism sectors, will be essential to unlocking the full potential of these digital payment links

On 21 Apr, the Deputy Prime Minister approved the master plan for the 9,663-hectare Trang An-Tam Coc-Bich Dong complex in Ninh Binh. Under strict construction and visitor controls, the plan forbids urban expansion into traditional villages or the unauthorised conversion of agricultural land. The project seeks to position the region as a premier global destination and a primary tourism engine for the Red River Delta, prioritising eco-tourism alongside diversified offerings such as wellness services, archaeological tours, and technology-driven experiences

Da Nang approved a $10.6 billion USD urban railway project to be funded and built by the private Thaco Group in partnership with South Korea's Hyundai Rotem. The project is scheduled to begin in early 2027 and become operational by 2032. The 103km line will be developed in 2 phases, with the first linking Da Nang International Airport to Hoi An, and the second extending to the Chu Lai industrial zone. This system aims to reduce travel times, cutting the journey to Hoi An to 20 minutes and to Chu Lai to 40 minutes

From Jan-Apr 2026, the Phu Quoc special administrative zone welcomed over 1 million international visitors (+61.5% YoY), reaching nearly half of the annual target, while generating around $912 million USD in revenue (+60.4% YoY). Visitor numbers for the Hung Kings and May Day holidays are expected to rise by over 40% compared to 2025

Ascott signed 7,300 units across Southeast Asia in 2025, +55% YoY. Ascott operates over 200 properties in the region, with another 150 properties in the planning and 25 new properties slated to open in the next 12 months. Ascott will expand into 20 new cities, including Phu Quoc and Nha Trang in Vietnam, Phuket and Hat Yai in Thailand, Labuan Bajo and Medan in Indonesia, Davao and Binan in the Philippines, and Johor Bahru and Langkawi in Malaysia. 30% of the project will be delivered through conversions. The key projects which will be rebranded are Bayview properties in Penang and Langkawi, to Ascott Batu Feringghi Penang, Oakwood Georgetown Penang and FOX Hotel Langkawi by 2028. The conversion also will involve Citadines Mitra Bandung, Oakwood Pandanaran Semarang, and Fox Hotel Nagoya Batam, which will be opening in one year

The Vietnam BirdRace 2026 will take place from 8-10 May at Cat Tien National Park, bringing together international photographers and conservationists to promote eco-tourism and biodiversity. Organised by groups including Wildtour and BirdLife International, the competition requires teams of 3-4 to document as many wild bird species as possible while adhering to strict non-disturbance rules

The 2026 Vietnam-China Cross-Border Tourism AI Empowerment Cooperation and Exchange Programme concluded on 19 Apr in Nanning, following 14 days of collaboration between Guangxi and 4 Vietnamese provinces. The initiative involved 30 officials and industry representatives who focused on integrating AI into destination branding, product development, and smart tourism technologies. Participants conducted field studies across Guangxi, visited the China-ASEAN AI Innovation and Cooperation Centre, and attended the Vietnam-China Border People’s Carnival. The programme ended with a product design competition where Quang Ninh secured the Best Design Award, while Lang Son, Cao Bang, and Tuyen Quang were recognised with Excellence Awards

Vietnam is planning to extend its suspension of fuel import tariffs by 2 months until 30 Jun 2026 to stabilise domestic production and manage rising costs. The Finance Ministry’s proposal, which includes a new tariff suspension for naphtha, reformate, and condensate, is expected to reduce state revenue by around $77 million USD for the period. The government also aims to extend special consumption tax cuts on electric vehicles until the end of 2030 to accelerate the transition to clean transport and support its 2050 net-zero target. According to a report from the Finance Ministry, annual EV sales surged from 7,000 in 2022 to 175,000 in 2025, with each vehicle contributing an estimated 0.85-tonne reduction in annual carbon dioxide emissions

Phu Quoc is rushing to complete 21 major projects in preparation for the APEC 2027 summit. There is a critical shortage of workers across the island, with the APEC Convention and Exhibition Center current workforce meeting only 30-40% of demand. To keep projects on track before the May rainy season, contractors have raised wages by up to 40%, implemented three-shift schedules, and provided free accommodation and "standby pay" for recruits from mainland provinces. Despite these efforts, the intensity of the construction boom has led some firms to propose hiring foreign labour

Hanoi’s Plan No. 131/KH-UBND mandates that all municipal agencies integrate AI into their operations by 1 Oct 2026, alongside a target for 95% of residents to hold electronic IDs. The city aims for a paperless administration by processing all non-classified dossiers electronically and moving 60% of official meetings online. The plan seeks to have the digital economy contribute 22% of GRDP while supporting 10,000 SMEs with low-cost digital tools. This transformation also prioritises social and environmental goals, including the automation of welfare benefits, the digitisation of cultural assets for export, and the adoption of energy-efficient "green" standards for all data centres and cloud services

According to data from the Australian Travel Industry Association, Australian travellers are increasingly favouring Asia over the U.S., with travel to the USA falling 4.8% YoY from Jan-Feb 2026. Meanwhile, Vietnam saw the highest growth at 16.1%, followed by China (15.9%) and Japan (15.6%)

Foreign passengers and overseas Vietnamese entering Vietnam via Tan Son Nhat International Airport must now submit an online travel declaration prior to entry from 15 Apr. Upon registration, they will be given a QR code which needs to be shown to immigration on arrival

Following President To Lam's first overseas state visit, China pledged comprehensive support for Vietnam’s rail infrastructure, offering loans, technology, and training for construction projects. During the trip, the 2 nations signed 32 pacts, including a railway feasibility study and agreements to boost talent capacity. Beyond transport, both committed to prioritising political security and closer law enforcement cooperation to counter terrorism and transnational crime. The visit also solidified economic partnerships in 5G, big data, and critical minerals, while highlighting warming ties as Vietnam’s governance model increasingly mirrors China's

Hanoi’s first aquatic complex, West Lake Water Park, reopened on 18 Apr 2026 following a comprehensive ocean-themed renovation. Under the "Summer Voyage 2026" banner, the park now features maritime-inspired decoration alongside a new floating stage for live music and water shows. To mark the launch, organisers introduced a 6-day promotional pricing period and a suite of interactive activities, including circus performances and pirate-themed treasure hunts

The 2026 TPO Vietnam Regional Meeting, held in Tay Ninh province on 14-15 Apr, gathered 168 industry representatives to focus on sports and wellness tourism as a driver for green growth and cultural preservation. Attended by major players like Vietnam Airlines and Sun Group, the forum aimed to strengthen regional linkages and enhance urban competitiveness through sustainable, identity-driven practices. Tay Ninh utilised the event to showcase its diverse infrastructure, including Ba Den Mountain and the Cao Dai Holy See, while facilitating policy exchanges among 14 Vietnamese provinces

Agoda named Chiang Mai as the top destination in Asia for culinary activities, based on activities booked on the platform in Q1 2026, followed by Bangkok, Hoi An, HCMC, and Hanoi. Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report showed that culinary experiences have risen into the top three motivators for Asian travellers, up from 6th in 2025

Vietnam aims to modernise its retail sector and boost tourism-linked spending by establishing at least 5 outlet centres in hubs like Hanoi and HCMC by 2030, with high-end "outlet villages" planned by 2045. The Ministry of Industry and Trade’s draft plan seeks to address a spending gap, as international visitors currently spend far less in Vietnam than in regional peers, and targets the country’s growing 50 million middle-class consumers. The strategy includes expanding duty-free stores to all international airports, border gates, and downtown areas, while proposing that domestic consumers also be granted access to duty-free benefits. If implemented effectively, these models could generate 579 trillion VND in revenue and increase the share of Vietnamese products in these channels to 30-40%, though experts warn that success depends on creating a more robust legal framework and offering incentives such as preferential land access and electronic VAT refunds

On 15 Apr, Vietnam's Party General Secretary and President To Lam met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. The 2 leaders signed several cooperation agreements and officially launched the "Vietnam-China Tourism Cooperation Year 2026-2027". In 2025, Chinese exports to Vietnam was +22.4%, with Vietnam spending $198 billion USD on Chinese goods. Despite territorial disputes in the South China Sea, both nations are prioritising supply chain integration and infrastructure to guard against global trade upheaval and energy security risks following restricted oil flows in the Middle East

In Q1 2026, Hue welcomed over 1.9 million visitors (+31.3% YoY) and generated nearly $170 million USD in revenue (+71.4% YoY). Of the total, international arrivals exceeded 843,000 (+26.7% YoY), while domestic visitors reached over 1.05 million (+35.2% YoY). The city is also seeing a boost in maritime travel, with cruise ship calls at Chan May Port expected to double to 88 vessels in 2026, bringing in 260,000 international visitors. In 2026, Hue aims to attract up to 7.5 million tourists (up 12-20% YoY) and earn 15 trillion VND (+15-18% YoY)

Following the HCMC Tourism Festival 2026 on 5 Apr, Grab Vietnam bolstered the city's digital tourism market by launching the "Iconic Eateries" Awards, which recognised 60 local establishments based on GrabFood data and service quality. Grab introduced a Travel Pass offering up to 2.5 million VND in bundled benefits, alongside dedicated on-site ride-hailing zones

According to data released by the National Statistics Office, in Mar 2026 Vietnam welcomed nearly 2.1 million foreign visitors, +1.3% YoY. While peak festival season and favourable weather drove this growth, the industry faces a challenging Q2 as surging fuel costs have pushed airfares up by as much as 40%. To sustain momentum, experts are urging a shift toward high-end tourism and emerging markets like India and Russia, while addressing local bottlenecks in the "final stage" of consumption, such as shopping

A trade, tourism, and investment promotion conference for Lam Dong province was held in Phnom Penh, featuring over 100 businesses from both nations. The event aimed to strengthen business links and work towards a bilateral trade target of $20 billion USD. A key outcome of the event was an MoU signed with Air Cambodia to explore a direct air route between Phnom Penh and Lam Dong to bolster the province's tourism and agricultural exports, such as coffee and artichoke

Under Resolution 57-NQ/TW, Tuyen Quang is leveraging digital transformation to modernise its tourism sector, targeting 4.1 million arrivals in 2026, including 600,000 international visitors. The provincial government has digitised cultural heritage data for its online portal, while local residents in communes such as Na Hang and Lung Cu have adopted QR codes, social media, and online booking platforms

Following the death of a British tourist on the Ha Giang Loop, authorities in Tuyen Quang have issued a strict directive to tighten oversight of motorbike-based tourism. Under the new rules, only licensed travel agencies are permitted to organise or market tours, while rental and transport providers must operate under formal contracts with these agencies. Operators are now required to maintain comprehensive documentation, including insurance and passenger lists, and must provide detailed risk management plans covering specific terrain, emergency responses, and vehicle maintenance. Tourists must receive safety briefings on protective gear and hazardous terrain before attempting the technically demanding 350km circuit. Local authorities have been tasked with increasing oversight of tourism businesses to identify and report violations, such as unlicensed guides, illegal tour operations, and missing documentation or insurance

The Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) 2026 (9-12 Apr) attracted over 90,000 visitors, and generated 195 billion VND in direct sales. Earnings from short-haul Asian tours were +15%. The fair recorded over 35 million interactions on TikTok. The B2B programme included nearly 500 buyers, comprising 125 international and over 300 Vietnamese enterprises, leading to 25,000 business appointments. High levels of satisfaction were reported, with 95% of businesses hitting their targets amid a consumer shift toward personalised and eco-friendly travel

For the upcoming peak travel season (30 Apr-1 May holiday), many families are swapping flights for private car journeys to closer destinations like Cam Ranh, Phan Thiet, or Vung Tau. Localities are responding with major stimulus efforts, such as Da Nang’s million-tulip festival, Gia Lai’s ethnic culture event targeting 200,000 visitors, and Can Tho’s record-breaking 700kg sticky rice map at the Southern Traditional Cake Festival. The Director of Marketing and Communications at Vietravel Tourism Company reported that the number of customers booking tours for these 2 holiday periods has reached over 65% occupancy

Vietnam promoted its tourism potential at the 29th Travel and Vacation Show in Canada, joining over 190 exhibitors to engage directly with North American travellers. The Vietnamese Embassy showcased new, distinctive travel products and cultural displays to strengthen the country's presence on the global tourism map. Event organisers highlighted a growing interest from Canadians in Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and heritage, while the Canada-Vietnam Cultural and Education Council emphasised the vital role of the expatriate community in promoting the nation through cuisine and personal insights

On 12 Apr, the Prime Minister attended the groundbreaking for the Hanoi-Quang Ninh high-speed railway, a 120.2km "mega-project" developed by VinSpeed. The electrified line is designed for speeds of 350kph, utilising German technology from Siemens Mobility to slash travel times to around 23 minutes. It is scheduled for completion by late 2028

On 12 Apr, Vietnam's National Assembly voted unanimously to slash fuel-related taxes to 0, effective from 16 Apr-30 Jun 2026. The resolution eliminates the environmental protection tax on petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel, removes VAT obligations while maintaining input deductions, and reduces the special consumption tax on petrol to 0%. Domestically, these shifts have already contributed to price drops, with diesel falling by around 12,000 VND per litre to roughly 33,000 VND

According to the General Statistics Office, in Mar 2026, Vietnam recorded 2 million visitors (-6.7% MoM). This downturn was driven by a sharp drop-off in European travellers, most notably from Norway (-42% MoM), Poland (-38% MoM), and Sweden (-37% MoM), due to rising fuel costs and the temporary closure of Middle Eastern transit hubs like Dubai and Doha amid regional conflict. Conversely, several Asian markets saw growth, led by Japan (+39% MoM) and Indonesia (+34% MoM)

On 9 Apr, the Tourism Minister and the Embassy of Turkey in Cambodia reaffirmed their commitment to expanding tourism cooperation. A key driver of this partnership has been the launch of direct flights between Istanbul and Phnom Penh, which has bolstered trade and cultural exchanges while linking Cambodia to global travel gateways. In 2025, nearly 11,000 Turkish tourists visited Cambodia. Q1 2026 saw about 4,700 Turkish arrivals, +16% YoY

The 15th annual VITM 2026, held in Hanoi under the theme "Digital Transformation and Green Growth", convened over 600 organisations from 31 provinces and 20 countries. The event featured nearly 400 booths, drawing thousands of visitors each day. Key highlights included Gia Lai’s promotion of the National Tourism Year 2026, the announcement of LuxGroup’s boutique Saigon River cruises for June 2026, and discounts from Vietravel. Despite rising airfares, high visitor turnout suggests a market pivot where travellers now prioritise service credibility and transparency alongside environmental responsibility

At the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) 2026, 80 individuals and 141 enterprises were honoured for their roles in Vietnam's record-breaking 2025 tourism performance. The ceremony highlighted the sector's 20% growth and its status as one of the world's fastest-growing destinations. Looking ahead, the Vietnam Tourism Association launched a 2026 emulation programme focused on "Digital Transformation and Green Growth", established to promote sustainable practices and professional service standards. The next round of VITA Awards is scheduled for 9 Jul

From Jan-Feb 2026, Ninh Binh province welcomed over 5.4 million visitors (+9.9% YoY) and generated $221 million USD in tourism revenue (+15.9%). During the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday alone, the province received 2.38 million visitors, +81.4% YoY. By synchronising major events like the Bai Dinh Pagoda and Hoa Lu festivals with craft villages and local cuisine, authorities aim to promote sustainable "green" tourism and professional service standards

In 2025, Phu Tho province welcomed 14.5 million visitors, including 5.5 million during the Hung Kings’ festival alone, generating around 14.8 trillion VND in revenue. Officials recently hosted a survey tour for 80 international travel agencies from 8 countries to showcase key sites like the Hung Kings Temple and Long Coc tea hills. Moving forward, the province aims to leverage its convenient transport links to Hanoi, strengthen promotion activities, and diversify visitor experiences, such as eco-walks and cultural immersion, to better appeal to global markets

In Q1 2026, Dong Thap province welcomed 3.2 million visitors (+50% YoY), generating 1.55 trillion VND in revenue. This surge is attributed to a digital transformation strategy, which includes a five-language 3D interactive map, AI-powered robot guides at the provincial museum, and virtual tours at major relic sites like Go Thap. By integrating QR codes for audio guides and cashless payments at locations such as the Dong Tam Snake Farm, the province is modernising its tourism ecosystem. Following these initial results, authorities aim to attract 8 million total visitors and reach 4.8 trillion VND in revenue by the end of 2026

Vietnam’s sustainable urban planning programme aims to develop at least 5 international-standard cities by 2045, with the national urbanisation rate targeted to exceed 50% by 2030. Under this plan, urban economies are projected to contribute 85% of national GDP by 2030, supported by universal 5G coverage and a shift toward digital payments. Infrastructure goals include increasing average housing to 32 sqm per capita and ensuring public services in regional centres meet the standards of the top four ASEAN nations. To achieve this, the government will focus on building 100 climate-resilient model cities and a network of smart cities, with 3-5 expected to achieve regional recognition by the end of the decade

Workers and vendors in Phnom Penh are scaling back or cancelling trips to home provinces for the Khmer New Year due to rising living costs. According to the National Trade Union Coalition President, garment workers complained about inflation, particularly rising food and fuel prices and the cost of traveling

Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Safety launched an upgraded e-visa system on 4 Apr, streamlining the digital entry process. The update slashes processing times to 48 hours and introduces a 24/7 multilingual live chat alongside enhanced international payment gateways to resolve previous transaction issues for Western travellers. Travel agencies report that the simplified procedures and faster turnaround are expected to drive last-minute bookings to major destinations like Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Phu Quoc

Lam Dong province introduced a smoke-free tourism pilot across 10 sites and hotels to promote a healthy, sustainable environment and enhance its reputation as a wellness destination. By implementing no-smoking zones and widespread public awareness campaigns, the initiative aims to shift public habits and service standards. Early adopters like the MerPerle Dalat Hotel have already reported positive feedback, particularly from families and international travellers, prompting provincial authorities to plan a broader expansion of this green tourism model to strengthen the region's global competitiveness

On 7 Apr, a 14-day exchange and research programme on applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) to cross-border tourism opened in Nanning (China). Nearly 30 officials and tourism business representatives from 4 Vietnamese provinces, including Quang Ninh, Lang Son, Cao Bang, and Tuyen Quang attended. The initiative focuses on using big data for policy planning and developing smart, sustainable tourism brands in partnership with China’s Guangxi region

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

FTSE Russell has confirmed Vietnam's upgrade from frontier to emerging market status, with inclusion in global equity indices set to begin in phases from 21 Sep through 2027. The decision follows Vietnam's successful implementation of a global broker model and various market-friendly reforms, placing the country on par with markets like India and China. While the benchmark index has dipped 6% in 2026 due to geopolitical tensions, it surged 41% in 2025 alongside an 8% economic growth rate. This reclassification is expected to trigger investment as it allows passively managed funds to purchase shares in locally listed companies for the first time

Vietnam and Laos have advanced tourism cooperation along the East–West Economic Corridor following a major forum in Champasak on 3 Apr 2026. The event was attended by nearly 400 delegates from across the region, resulting in over 20 MoUs signed to bolster connectivity and multi-destination travel between 2026-2030. Da Nang is acting as the primary gateway for these efforts, focusing on infrastructure and policy improvements to streamline cross-border flows along the 1,450-kilometre route. According to the Vice Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee, the partnership aims to leverage the corridor's strategic position to integrate the tourism markets of Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar

The Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee chaired an appraisal meeting on 7 Apr to discuss adjusting the boundaries and area of the Ly Son Marine Protected Area. The proposal seeks to expand marine space to enhance biodiversity and resource conservation. Developed following consultations with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and local communities, the adjustment aims to balance environmental protection with sustainable livelihoods and national security. The consulting unit has been tasked with finalising the dossier, ensuring clear boundary definitions and thorough assessments of environmental impacts to meet legal and planning requirements

Hanoi officials announced that a blanket ban on gasoline-powered motorbikes within the Beltway 1 area will not be imposed from 1 Jul. Instead, the city will implement a phased pilot of low emission zones in selected areas, focusing on a defined roadmap for controlling both car and motorbike emissions. To support this transition, the city is leveraging its public transport capacity, including 2 urban rail lines and 45 subsidised bus routes, while prioritising the use of green buses in designated zones. Additional infrastructure improvements planned for Q2 include new public bicycle stations and a study into small electric buses for narrow streets to enhance last-mile connectivity

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

Vietnam's Ministry of Health proposed a draft plan to grow the national medical tourism market from $700 million USD in 2024 to nearly $4 billion USD by 2033. The strategy involves piloting integrated medical-leisure models in 5 key localities, including Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang, Quang Ninh, and Khanh Hoa, while establishing 15 internationally accredited hospitals by 2030. By leveraging competitive costs and expertise in fields such as IVF, cardiology, and traditional medicine, the initiative aims to attract high-spending patients from global markets and reduce the number of citizens seeking treatment abroad. Key developments for 2026 include AI-driven diagnostic upgrades in Hanoi and the expansion of specialised oncology and paediatric facilities

Since the start of the Middle East conflict, diesel prices in Cambodia have surged by over 110% to $2.03 USD per litre, while petrol and LPG have seen increases of 42.8% and 95% respectively. The government has responded by reducing fuel import duties and slashing taxes on electric vehicles and solar devices to encourage a shift toward renewables

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

According to the Lao Cai Provincial Electronic Information Portal, in Q1 2026, Ta Van commune welcomed 71,691 visitors, including 9,554 international tourists. Total revenue from tourism and services is estimated at over 221.36 billion VND. The locality successfully met over 85% of its socio-economic targets, supported by 144 accommodation establishments that provide jobs for 650 local workers. Infrastructure has seen improvement, with 100% of villages connected to the power grid and 93% of households accessing hygienic wate

Vietnam Airlines Group, comprising Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, and VASCO, will operate nearly 5,500 flights during the 2026 Hung Kings and 30 Apr-1 May holidays, offering 1.12 million seats (+15.5% YoY). Domestic capacity is set to rise significantly, with seats on the Hanoi-HCMC-Da Nang triangle up by nearly 30% and tourist routes to Nha Trang and Phu Quoc increasing by 20%. Internationally, the group will provide close to 390,000 seats (+14.4% YoY) across 1,700 flights (+13.4% YoY)