Vietnam Welcomes Nearly 14 Million International Tourists in First Eight Months of 2025

Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Vietnam’s tourism sector is continuing its robust recovery, with almost 14 million international visitors recorded in the first eight months of the year — a 21.7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to data released by the National Statistics Office.

August alone saw 1.68 million arrivals, the highest ever for the month, boosted by celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day (September 2). This figure was up 7.8 percent from July and 16.5 percent year-on-year.

Tourism revenue from travel services reached VNĐ61.2 trillion (US$2.32 billion) during the period, reflecting a 20.3 percent rise over last year. Officials noted that the strong August numbers — traditionally a low season for foreign travel — underscored the sector’s clear signs of recovery and expansion.

Air travel remained the dominant entry mode, with 11.9 million visitors, or 85.2 percent of the total, while land arrivals reached 1.9 million and sea arrivals 187,800.

China and South Korea Lead Source Markets

China and South Korea continued to account for nearly half of all inbound visitors, with China contributing more than 3.5 million (25.4 percent) and South Korea over 2.9 million (20.9 percent). Other strong-performing markets included Taiwan (China), the United States, Japan, Cambodia, India, Russia, Australia, and Malaysia.

European markets also recorded notable growth, particularly the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Within Southeast Asia, arrivals rose from the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

Russia posted a remarkable 164.9 percent year-on-year surge, credited to promotional campaigns by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, alongside local businesses.

Ambitious 2025 Target

With nearly 14 million international arrivals already recorded, Vietnam’s tourism industry is firmly on track to achieve its ambitious target of welcoming 25 million foreign visitors in 2025 — the highest ever.