Vietnam Aims for 25 Million Tourists with Green Tourism Push

Vietnam just showed the world that going green doesn't mean slowing down. After welcoming over 21.2 million international visitors in 2025, beating pre-pandemic records, the Southeast Asian nation is setting an even bigger goal for 2026.

The target? Twenty-five million international tourists, drawn by a revolutionary approach to travel that puts the planet first.

Vietnam's Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is leading a nationwide effort to make eco-tourism the new normal. Popular destinations like Ha Long Bay and Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park are getting stricter rules on waste disposal and cleaner transport options. The government is offering tax breaks to hotels and attractions that earn green certifications, making it easier for businesses to choose sustainability.

But the transformation goes beyond environmental protection. Vietnam launched Visit Vietnam, a digital platform that helps travelers plan smarter trips with real-time information about destinations, hotels, and cultural sites. The upgraded e-visa system now makes it easier for visitors from Europe, Asia, and America to enter and stay longer, removing bureaucratic headaches that once deterred travelers.

The country is also spreading tourism love beyond the usual hotspots. Rural tourism and agritourism programs invite visitors to experience authentic Vietnamese culture in smaller villages and countryside areas. This strategy relieves pressure on crowded sites while bringing economic benefits to communities that need it most.

Workers across the tourism industry are receiving training to meet growing demand for quality service. Meanwhile, visa exemptions now cover 24 countries, with longer stay options for markets known to spend more on travel.

The Ripple Effect

Vietnam's green tourism model creates wins across the board. Local communities gain sustainable income without sacrificing their natural resources. Travelers get authentic experiences in pristine environments. And the planet gets a break from the usual tourist footprint that damages fragile ecosystems.

Other developing nations are watching closely, seeing proof that tourism growth doesn't require choosing between profits and preservation. Vietnam is writing the playbook for responsible travel in the post-pandemic era, showing that countries can welcome millions while protecting what makes them special in the first place.

The country's success sends a clear message: the future of travel is green, and it's already here.