HANOI, VIETNAM – Vietnam prepared to welcome its 20 millionth international visitor in a single year, marking a historic milestone for Southeast Asian tourism on the island of Phu Quoc.
Celebration planned for record visitors on Phu Quoc
The government planned a large celebration for ticket numbers 19,999,999, 20,000,000 and 20,000,001, who were to be greeted directly at the aircraft and inside the terminal at Phu Quoc International Airport. Each of the three travellers was set to receive special gifts designed to underline Phu Quoc’s identity as a leading island destination. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the province of An Giang jointly organised the event as a clear signal that Vietnam’s tourism sector had returned with new intensity.
Post-pandemic boom driven by policy changes
In the first eleven months of 2025, Vietnam recorded 19 million visitors, an increase of 20.4 percent compared with the previous year. Officials attributed the boom to targeted policy decisions, including simplified visa rules, the opening of new markets and extensive promotional campaigns. At the same time, travel experiences and services were significantly improved, helping position Vietnam as safe, attractive and competitive, particularly in comparison with Thailand.
Phu Quoc as symbol of renewal and modernity
Phu Quoc was chosen as the venue because the island symbolised both the recovery and the modernisation of Vietnam’s tourism more than any other location. A modern tourism and resort ecosystem was being developed there amid striking natural scenery, and the island’s international airport ranked among the busiest in the country.
“Phu Quoc represents the new vitality of our industry.”
said a government representative.
Rising global appeal and repeat visitors
The 20-million mark was framed as more than just a figure, reinforcing Vietnam’s growing pull on the global tourism map. Travellers were said to appreciate the country’s unique culture, impressive landscapes, rich cuisine and diverse experiences, contributing to a high rate of repeat visitors. This achievement was seen as momentum for more ambitious goals, including a plan to welcome 35 million international guests by 2030.
Tourism eyed as economic spearhead
Tourism was expected to become the spearhead of the national economy, with the record seen as evidence that Vietnam was on the right path. The country celebrated its success while inviting the world to continue visiting. At the same time, questions were raised about how sustainable this growth would be and whether Vietnam could maintain a balance between quality, the environment and infrastructure without undermining the foundations of its own success.
Regional implications and over-tourism concerns
Commentators highlighted that 20 million international guests represented trust, safety and attractiveness in a fiercely competitive global market. They also asked whether Vietnam’s trajectory would serve as a model for the region or as a warning sign of potential over-tourism. The development was further viewed in the context of regional competition, prompting debate over what the country’s rapid rise in visitor numbers might mean for neighbouring Thailand.