The number of international tourists visiting Vietnam surged significantly in 2024, reaching nearly 17.6 million arrivals, according to the latest data from the General Statistics Office.
In December 2024 alone, foreign arrivals reached 1.75 million, marking a 27.4% increase compared to the same period last year.
The total figure for the year represents a 39.5% rise from 2023 and is equivalent to 97.6% of the pre-pandemic peak in 2019, when Vietnam welcomed approximately 18 million international visitors.
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The General Statistics Office highlighted 2024 as a year of strong recovery for Vietnam’s tourism industry, driven by favorable visa policies, enhanced tourism promotion campaigns, and prestigious international tourism awards that have elevated Vietnam’s global appeal.
Visitor Arrival by Transportation Mode
- By Air: Over 14.8 million visitors arrived by air, representing 84.4% of the total and reflecting a 35.6% year-on-year increase.
- By Road: Nearly 2.5 million visitors traveled by road, showing a significant 63.3% increase.
- By Sea: Arrivals by sea surged by 96.7%, reaching nearly 248,100 visitors.
These numbers reflect the sustainable recovery of Vietnam’s tourism sector, providing a strong foundation for continued growth in the coming years.
Economic Contribution
- Accommodation and Catering Services Revenue: Estimated at VNĐ733.9 trillion (US$28.9 billion).
- Tourism and Travel Revenue: Estimated at VNĐ62.5 trillion ($2.45 billion).
In the fourth quarter of 2024, 1.2 million Vietnamese citizens traveled abroad, a 3.4% increase from the same period last year. For the entire year, outbound Vietnamese travelers totaled 5.3 million, up 5.5% compared to 2023.
Future Goals for Vietnam’s Tourism Sector
In 2025, Vietnam aims to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels, targeting:
- At least 22 million international visitors.
- 120–130 million domestic visitors, with an annual domestic growth rate of up to 9%.
- Direct tourism contribution of 6% to GDP, generating at least VNĐ980 trillion ($38.59 billion) in revenue.
- Creation of 5.5 million jobs, including 1.8 million direct jobs.
Vietnam’s tourism sector remains optimistic about sustained growth, positioning itself as a leading global travel destination.
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Source: Vietnam Insider