In a positive sign of recovery, Vietnam welcomed approximately 12.6 million international visitors in 2023, marking an encouraging achievement at 70% of pre-COVID levels, as reported by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT). With an eye on the future, Vietnam aims for full recovery in 2024, setting an ambitious target of 17 to 18 million international visitors.
Recovery Progress in 2023:
Vietnam’s tourism sector exhibited resilience in 2023, welcoming 70% of the pre-pandemic international visitors. This positive momentum reflects the country’s successful efforts in navigating the challenges posed by the global health crisis.
Top Source Markets:
South Korea emerged as Vietnam’s primary source market in 2023, contributing significantly with 3.6 million arrivals. Following closely was China, with 1.7 million arrivals. While South Korea showcased a robust recovery, China’s progress exhibited a slower rate of 30% compared to 2019 levels.
Recovery Rates Across Key Markets:
Promising recovery rates were observed in key markets such as the USA, Taiwan, Thailand, and Indonesia. These countries demonstrated resilience and a positive trajectory toward pre-pandemic tourism levels. Notably, Spain, Germany, the UK, and France were described as “upbeat,” indicating a favorable outlook for tourism recovery from these European markets.
Financial Impact:
International arrivals contributed significantly to Vietnam’s tourism revenue, reaching VND678 trillion, as reported by VietnamNet. This substantial financial impact underscores the importance of international tourism in supporting the country’s economy.
Vision for 2024:
Looking ahead, Vietnam sets ambitious goals for 2024, targeting a full recovery in its tourism sector. The country aims to attract between 17 million and 18 million international visitors, signaling confidence in its ability to rebound and position itself as a premier destination on the global tourism map.
Implications for the Tourism Industry:
Vietnam’s successful recovery efforts in 2023, coupled with its optimistic outlook for 2024, send a positive message to the global tourism industry. The country’s ability to adapt, coupled with the diverse recovery rates across key source markets, positions Vietnam as a resilient and attractive destination for international travelers.
Vietnam’s tourism sector showcased resilience and recovery in 2023, welcoming 12.6 million international visitors and contributing significantly to the country’s tourism revenue. With a strategic vision for 2024, Vietnam aims to achieve full recovery, setting ambitious targets for international visitor numbers. The positive trends in recovery rates across key source markets underscore Vietnam’s appeal as a destination, signaling a promising future for the country’s tourism industry.