Mekong nations agree on 2026–2028 tourism cooperation plan

Tourism ministers from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam (CLMV) and representatives from the ACMECS economic cooperation framework have met in Ho Chi Minh City to strengthen regional tourism ties. The meetings, held during the 20th ITE HCMC, focused on establishing a joint tourism cooperation plan for the 2026–2028 period.

Key objectives include developing cross-border travel products, such as caravan tours, self-driving itineraries, and Mekong River cruises. The nations aim to promote the region as a unified destination through initiatives like “One Journey, Three Destinations” and the “Plus One Country” program. There is a significant emphasis on leveraging local culinary traditions and cultural heritage to create immersive, sustainable tourism experiences.

Regional cooperation will also prioritize human resource development, joint marketing, and the creation of ecological and heritage corridors. The goal is to enhance the Mekong sub-region's competitiveness in the international market by fostering seamless connectivity and shared branding among member states.