Vietnam is recovering rapidly: 9.2 million tourists as early as 2025!

Vietnam is recovering rapidly: 9.2 million tourists as early as 2025!

Vietnam is experiencing a notable increase in international tourism, seen by authorities and experts as a strong signal of post-pandemic recovery. According to the statistics office, over 9.2 million international guests visited the country in the first five months of the year, indicating a brisk return of travelers. The main markets for the Vietnamese tourism sector are China, South Korea and Taiwan, while the USA, Japan, Cambodia, India, Australia and Malaysia are also among the top ten countries of origin. Russia in particular recorded significant clientele from Europe with 210,000 arrivals.

The clash of tourists and the resurgence of travel activity is also reflected in last month's figures. In May 2025, Vietnam reached over 1.5 million international arrivals, the highest for that month in the last decade. This increase is also notable because May is not normally the peak season. Tourism company BestPrice reported an increase in international visitor numbers of almost 20% compared to the previous year.

Economic boom through international tourism

The economic impact of tourism is also clearly felt. The estimate of revenue from accommodation and food services is over VND340,000 billion in the first five months. Total revenue from the tourism sector is estimated at about VND38,400 billion. Ho Chi Minh City leads the way with a sales increase of 30.4%, followed by Dong Nai, Lao Cai, Hanoi and Da Nang.

This positive development is due not least to the favorable visa regulations and expanded tourism promotion programs. Entrepreneurs like Mr. Bui Thanh Tu, Marketing Director of BestPrice, see the current figures as a good sign for the future development of tourism in Vietnam. Planned international arrivals for 2025 are ambitious, with a target of 22 to 23 million visitors, an increase of 20% compared to 2019.

Optimistic outlook and challenges

Experts consider this goal optimistic, but emphasize the need to increase tourist spending to sustain growth. The situation presents an opportunity not only for the return of travelers, but also for the revival of the country's economic dynamism. Vietnam has established itself as a standout destination in Southeast Asia as it boasts the fastest recovery in the tourism-related sector since the pandemic, as Viet Nam Plus reported. The development of tourist numbers and the economic effects indicate a positive trend that must continue to be monitored and supported.