Vietnam issues resolution to make tourism a spearhead economic sector

Vietnam has issued Resolution 26-NQ/TW, signed by General Secretary and President To Lam, to transform the tourism industry into a spearhead economic sector. The resolution aims to drive double-digit economic growth by integrating tourism into a comprehensive economic ecosystem involving trade, services, transport, and the digital economy.

While the sector has seen progress in infrastructure and digital transformation over the last decade, the resolution identifies several bottlenecks. These include unsustainable development, a lack of creative and deep-value products, limited destination management, and insufficient regional coordination. The new strategy emphasizes a shift from quantity-driven growth to a model focused on quality, smart development, green growth, and innovation.

To support this transition, experts and industry leaders are calling for improved legal frameworks, particularly regarding resort real estate and condotels. Proposals include allowing foreign individuals to purchase tourist apartments and establishing clearer regulations for short-term rentals on digital platforms like Airbnb. Additionally, there is a growing focus on community-based and agricultural tourism to ensure sustainable development and preserve local culture.