Vietnam’s tourism sector counts cost of coronavirus
The coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic could cause losses of 5.9-7.7 billion USD for the domestic tourism sector in the next three months, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT).
Hanoi (VNA) – The coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic couldcause losses of 5.9-7.7 billion USD for the domestic tourism sector in the nextthree months, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism(VNAT).
The tourism sector estimated a 90 percent decrease in the numberof Chinese visitors due to the disease, and a 50-70 percent drop in holidaymakersfrom other countries.
Meanwhile, the number of domestic holidaymakersis likely to suffer a fall of 50-70 percent.
China, where the outbreak began late last year, has advised itscitizens to stay at home. Vietnam has also stemmed the flow of tourists fromcoronavirus-stricken areas and suspended festivals. International vacationershave stayed away from Asia while many Vietnamese tourists have decided to stayat home.
The VNAT said losses caused by COVID-19 could be huge in both theshort and long terms.
To cope with this, the agency has outlined a plan to help theindustry recover, focusing on nearby markets connected by favourable air routeslike the Republic of Korea (RoK), Japan, Taiwan (China) and the Association ofSoutheast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and others with major potential such as India.
At the same time, Vietnam will focus more on North America, andmaintain and expand its reach to Western and Northern Europe.
The VNAT plans to work with partners, particularly airlines, todiscuss tourism cooperation and recovery after the acute respiratory disease subsides.
Resources will be mobilised for promotional campaigns throughtelevision and social networks, especially major TV channels like CNN, in orderto show Vietnam’s ability to control the crisis and promote the country as anattractive, safe and friendly destination.
Travel companies are also implementing stimulation packages,seeking new markets and offering new tours that ensure safety./.
Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam has asked the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) to ensure health and absolute safety for students when they return to schools after a break due to the outbreak of the acute respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
The first and only direct service connecting the two countries at the moment is set to operate three times per week using the modern wide-body Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.
Mu Cang Chai is home to nearly 83,000 hectares of forest, including almost 60,000 hectares of unspoiled natural woodland. Recognising this potential, local authorities have embraced a holistic strategy that protects biodiversity while promoting tourism.
Phu Quoc ranks among the top 10 leading tourist islands in Asia. As the largest island in Vietnam, it boasts stunning natural beauty, with expansive coral reefs resting beneath the sea and a number of beautiful, poetic beaches such as Sao, Truong, and Khem, known for their fine white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Vietnam's national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet are among the exhibitors, promoting key destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Phu Quoc, as well as distinctive tourism products.
Alexander Musikhin, Vice President of ATOR and CEO of the Intourist travel agency, highlighted Vietnam as a top destination offering a unique blend of beach holidays and cultural excursions.
According to Seoul’s Tourism Industry Department, approximately 20,000 Vietnamese visitors travel to the city each year for medical treatment. Vietnam consistently ranks among the top 10 countries with the highest number of medical tourists to Seoul.
An analysis of accommodation search data based on check-in dates for June and July revealed that Nha Trang surpassed all other destinations in popularity among Korean users.
The programme is organised by the Khanh Hoa provincial Youth Union and the “Khanh Hoa people speak English” Project, and aims to promote the culture, history, cuisine and other tourism products of Nha Trang – Khanh Hoa to international visitors.
VNAT Director General Nguyen Trung Khanh called visa a golden ticket to pulling in crowds, but he is clear that it needs coordinated efforts across multiple sectors to keep the momentum going in this fast-moving global travel scene.
As a tourism hub, Hanoi is now actively developing strategies to attract Muslim travellers. In recent years, the city has seen a notable uptick in visitors from countries with large Muslim populations.
When tourists witness firsthand the passion and care of farmers, they’re willing to pay higher prices because they see the genuine worth behind every product.
During the first five months, China continued to be Vietnam's largest source market of tourists, followed by the RoK, China’s Taiwan, the US, and Japan.
After more than three months of operation, the popularity of the free tours in Bac Ninh province shows no signs of cooling down. Many tourists return every week in hopes of experiencing all the tours and visiting every destination.
Typical products of Phu Tho are being showcased at the Lao Cai International Travel Mart 2025, held in the northern mountainous province of Lao Cai from June 5-8.
Featuring 130 stalls and delegations from 120 travel agencies representing more than ten countries and territories, the event is expected to provide a platform for establishing partnerships and attracting more visitors to Lao Cai in the future.
Kicking off the festival on the evening of June 7 will be the grand music concert titled “Nha Trang Say Hi”, featuring popular artists from the trending show “Anh Trai Say Hi”. The event will be broadcast live nationwide and conclude with a fireworks display over Nha Trang Bay.
Data from Booking.com reveals that during the peak summer vacation in June and July, beach trips continue to be a top priority for Vietnamese travellers.
The northern midland province of Phu Tho has carried out all-round measures to improve tourism infrastructure, services, and offerings, elevating visitor experience and reinforcing the province’s unique cultural identity.
Hanoi has directed lodging providers and tourist destinations to bolster preparations in staffing, service quality, security, and sanitation. Community-based lodging platforms such as Airbnb are also being promoted strongly to expand housing supply during the holiday period.
Illustrative image (Source: VNA) 
