Vietnam aims to attract 22–23 million international visitors in 2025, marking a 28% increase from this year's projection. The tourism sector is expected to contribute directly between 6–8% to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).Speaking at a conference on Thursday, Pham Van Thuy, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, highlighted the industry’s significant role in GDP growth, job creation, and improving living standards.The tourism sector targets a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels by 2025, with an annual domestic visitor growth rate of 8–9%.In 2023, tourism accounted for 7% of Vietnam’s GDP, though 2024 figures have not yet been finalized. This year, the country is expected to welcome 17–17.5 million foreign tourists. By November, international arrivals had reached 15.8 million, generating VND758 trillion (approximately $29 billion) in revenue. This figure represents 88% of the annual target of 18 million arrivals and reflects a 41% year-on-year growth.Looking further ahead, Vietnam's tourism industry has set ambitious goals for 2030, aiming to welcome 35 million international visitors and 160 million domestic tourists annually. The sector plans to contribute 10–13% to GDP and create over 10 million jobs.Vu The Binh, Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association, noted that tourism achieved unprecedented growth between 2017 and 2019, contributing 9.2% to GDP. However, he acknowledged that the sector still struggles to establish itself as a key economic driver due to persistent weaknesses.Nguyen Quoc Ky, Chairman of Vietravel, pointed out that Vietnam's tourism GDP contribution in 2023 lagged behind the global average of 10.3%. He highlighted regional comparisons: Thailand at 23%, the Philippines at 22.5%, and Cambodia at 25.8%.Experts emphasized the urgent need to reassess Vietnam’s competitiveness and policy framework to overcome challenges faced by businesses in the tourism sector. Source: VNE