Tourism authorities describe the milestone as highly significant for the sector, noting that reaching 20 million international arrivals reflects Vietnam’s growing appeal and strengthened position on the global tourism map. The event is widely seen as proof that the country is emerging as one of the region’s leading destinations, attracting visitors with its distinctive culture, natural beauty, diverse cuisine and a wide range of travel experiences.

The landmark also underscores the strong recovery of international tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic. Vietnam has successfully aligned with the global recovery trend, maintaining steady growth momentum and recording a high rate of repeat visitors - key indicators of sustainable development.

More notably, the “20-million mark” is viewed as a vote of confidence from international travelers in Vietnam as a destination that is safe, welcoming and rich in both tangible and intangible beauty.

The milestone is also expected to provide fresh impetus for Vietnam to pursue its longer-term goal of welcoming 35 million international visitors by 2030, contributing to the ambition of positioning tourism as a spearhead sector of the economy and elevating the national brand.

Official statistics showed that in the first 11 months of 2025, Vietnam welcomed approximately 19 million international visitors, representing a 20.4% increase year on year. With stable growth continuing in the fourth quarter and international travel demand recovering strongly, reaching the 20 million mark by mid-December 2025 is considered feasible.

This is the first time in the 65-year history of Vietnam’s tourism industry that the country has recorded 20 million international arrivals in a single year, signaling a new stage of development in its recovery and growth trajectory.

The achievement is also cited as evidence of the effectiveness of the Government’s consistent and decisive leadership in implementing policies and solutions to revive and develop tourism. In particular, it reflects positive outcomes from visa policy reforms, international market expansion, intensified promotion and marketing efforts, and improvements in the quality of tourism products and services.

Charter flights from India to Phu Quoc officially launched

VOV.VN - An Air India Express flight, IX101, landed at Phu Quoc International Airport in southern An Giang province on December 10, officially launching a series of direct charter flights from New Delhi to Phu Quoc (DEL–PQC), scheduled to operate through mid-January 2026.