This is a significant growth rate, particularly given the broader trends in the global tourism market. The figure means the tourism sector has already achieved nearly 71% of its target of welcoming 25 million international visitors in 2026. China and South Korea remain the two largest source markets. Notably, arrivals from Europe have also increased strongly, with European visitors tending to stay longer in Vietnam.
Vietnam’s tourism growth came amid continued challenges facing global travel, including geopolitical tensions, sluggish economic conditions, high transport and energy costs, intensifying competition among destinations and rapidly changing travel demand.
Against this backdrop, Vietnam’s double-digit growth in the first nine months reflects the country’s growing appeal as a destination, supported by safety and stability, market diversification, a wide range of tourism products, improved air connectivity and expanding service capacity.
The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism said the results indicate that the sector is gradually shifting towards deeper, quality-oriented and sustainable growth. The focus is increasingly on not only attracting more visitors but also extending their stays, increasing spending and enhancing the quality and added value of tourism experiences.