Vietnam tourism records over $9 billion revenue and 12 million foreign arrivals in first half of 2026

In the first six months of 2026, Vietnam’s tourism sector generated more than US$9 billion in revenue from international visitors, while Vietnamese outbound spending reached about US$8.05 billion, leaving a net surplus of roughly US$950 million.

International arrivals rose to an estimated 12.3 million, a 14.9% increase year‑on‑year, fulfilling nearly half of the government’s target of 25 million visitors for the year. China remained the largest source market with 2.69 million guests, followed by South Korea with 2.16 million. Russia showed the strongest growth, up 185.8% to 743 000 visitors, securing its place as the third‑largest market.

Domestic tourism also remained strong, with about 81 million Vietnamese travelers, representing 54% of the annual goal. The government plans to boost the sector’s contribution by targeting high‑spending, longer‑stay visitors and enhancing product quality, while encouraging more Vietnamese to travel domestically.