Vietnam International Visit Counts on the Rise
3.4 million is the number of foreign tourists travelling to Vietnam in the first seven months of 2011, according to statistics collected by Vietnam General Statistics Office.
As of 2025, Vietnam has seen a significant influx of foreign tourists, welcoming approximately 11 million visitors in the first seven months of the year. According to the latest statistics from the Vietnam General Statistics Office, this reflects an impressive 22% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The growth has been particularly notable in leisure tourism, with over 6 million travelers flocking to Vietnam for holidays (a 15% increase compared to the previous year) and about 1.2 million visiting for family and friend gatherings (up 75% from 2024). These numbers emphasize the country's growing reputation as a top destination in Southeast Asia.
However, not every sector of tourism is experiencing similar growth. MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) has faced challenges. The decline in MICE travelers can be attributed to factors such as inadequate facilities at hotels, unprofessional event organizers, and limited creative offerings from domestic travel companies. To rejuvenate MICE tourism, collaboration among government entities, local authorities, and hospitality providers is essential.
Hotels aiming to attract MICE travelers must enhance their facilities and ensure they provide the necessary equipment and services to accommodate these groups. Tourism companies should also develop engaging MICE tours that blend business with leisure, including options such as charity gala dinners, cultural excursions, and complimentary activities like local market visits or sports events.
The government’s role is pivotal in revitalizing MICE tourism through supportive policies, and the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism should prioritize effective marketing strategies targeted specifically at MICE tourism.
It’s noteworthy that a significant portion of the current tourist influx is attributed to visitors from Asia, including countries like Cambodia, China, and Malaysia, rather than from Western nations. This trend highlights Vietnam's appeal to budget-conscious travelers, with the country’s advantages stemming from its close geographical proximity and beautiful natural landscapes rather than high-end accommodations or luxury tourism services.
To attract a greater number of higher-income travelers from Western countries, Vietnamese tourism providers need to upgrade their facilities and services, develop targeted marketing campaigns for Western markets, and create tailored tour packages specifically designed for Western visitors. With domestic tourism peaking during the summer months of July, August, and September, there is optimism that the positive growth trend will persist.
