HCMC TOURISM REVENUE TOPS VND184 TRILLION IN JAN-SEPT

Tourists take a cyclo ride in downtown HCMC – PHOTO: DAT THANH

HCMC — HCMC’s tourism revenue exceeded VND184 trillion in the first nine months of the year, meeting 71% of the full-year target, according to the city’s Department of Tourism.

The city attracted an estimated 5.88 million international visitors, or 69% of the year’s plan, and over 29.17 million domestic travelers, about 65% of the full-year target.

Following the merger of Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau into HCMC on July 1, the city has set a goal of achieving double-digit economic growth, identifying tourism as one of its key sectors.

The Tourism Department said it has reviewed resources, redefined tourism products, and planned new development strategies. Localities are developing distinctive tourism products, expanding nighttime activities, and promoting public-private partnerships in culture and sports. The department is also proposing revisions to waterway and passenger port regulations to attract more investment in river tourism.

HCMC has raised its 2025 tourism targets to 8.5–10 million international visitors, up 30–40% from the original plan, and 45–50 million domestic tourists, up 15–20%. Total revenue is projected to reach around VND290 trillion, compared with the previous goal of VND260 trillion.

The city plans to focus on digital transformation, green tourism, and expanding marine, industrial, and cruise tourism to double revenue from these segments.

HCMC currently has 7,211 tourism businesses, including 1,815 travel firms, 5,396 lodging facilities with 92,468 rooms, and 9,540 licensed tour guides.

Source: The Saigon Times