Vietnam medical tourism market shows untapped growth potential

Vietnam has yet to fully capitalize on its medical tourism potential despite attracting nearly 21 million international arrivals in 2025. According to Dr. Duong Huy Luong, deputy head of the Department of Medical Service Administration, only a small proportion of these visitors come specifically for medical services.

While Vietnamese citizens spend billions annually on medical treatment abroad, the domestic medical tourism market is estimated at approximately $1 billion. This stands in contrast to regional leaders like Thailand, which generated nearly $3 billion in medical revenue and over $20 billion when including related healthcare and wellness services.

Experts note that Vietnam possesses several advantages for sector growth, including mastery of nearly 90 percent of global medical techniques, competitive treatment costs, political stability, and a network of over 400 private hospitals.