Vietnam holds great potential for sustainable tourism

Vietnam has made a strong mark on the global tourism map, consistently earning international accolades. In 2024, the country welcomed 17.6 million international visitors and 110 million domestic tourists, generating total tourism revenue of VND840 trillion. Its impressive post-pandemic recovery has positioned Vietnam as an attractive destination in the region. However, this rapid expansion has also placed immense pressure on natural resources, cultural heritage and the environment, necessitating long-term strategies to ensure sustainable growth.

The ST4SD project, set to be implemented between 2024 and 2027, will focus on three key areas: sustainable tourism policy planning, capacity building for tourism professionals, and implementing eco-friendly tourism models in selected destinations. A major component of the initiative is the development of a Vietnam Sustainable Tourism Index to enhance competitiveness. Additionally, the project emphasizes training tourism and hospitality personnel to meet international green tourism standards.

Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass highlighted that Vietnam possesses immense potential for sustainable tourism, thanks to its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. However, the key challenge is maximizing this potential while ensuring long-term development and preserving its identity and environment. He affirmed that Switzerland’s centuries-old expertise in sustainable tourism could help Vietnam achieve its goals.

In reality, some localities in Vietnam have successfully adopted sustainable tourism models. Hoi An, for instance, has implemented policies restricting motorized vehicles in its ancient town and encourages the use of lanterns instead of electric lights to conserve energy. Ecotourism destinations such as Cuc Phuong, Con Dao and Phong Nha-Ke Bang focus on natural conservation while supporting local livelihoods. However, these initiatives have yet to be scaled nationwide and still lack overall consistency.

The ST4SD project presents a valuable opportunity for Vietnam to learn from Switzerland and develop a sustainable tourism strategy tailored to its unique conditions. More importantly, sustainable tourism development is not solely the responsibility of governments or businesses, it requires collective efforts from the entire community and travelers. When individuals become more conscious of their travel choices, from transportation and accommodation to food consumption, Vietnam’s tourism industry can truly achieve long-term sustainability and efficiency.