Vietnam led Asia-Pacific in tourist arrival growth in H1 2025, with 10.7 million visitors and strong economic impact.
Vietnam has emerged as Asia-Pacific’s top performer in international tourism growth for the first half of 2025, posting the region’s highest increase in visitor arrivals and achieving global recognition for its strong post-pandemic recovery. According to the latest World Tourism Barometer released by the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), Vietnam recorded a 30% year-on-year increase in international tourist arrivals during Q1 2025, placing it sixth globally and first in the Asia-Pacific region, ahead of Japan and Palau.
The General Statistics Office of Vietnam reported that the country welcomed nearly 10.7 million international visitors in the first six months of 2025—a 21% increase compared to the same period in 2024, and a 26% rise over 2019, the last pre-pandemic benchmark year. June alone saw 1.46 million arrivals, maintaining strong momentum despite seasonal fluctuations.
Vietnam also ranked second globally in recovery of international arrivals, showing a 34% increase compared to 2019 levels. Furthermore, it placed fourth worldwide for tourism revenue growth, with a 29% year-on-year increase, reinforcing its position as a competitive player in the global tourism economy.
Air travel continues to be the primary mode of entry, with over 9.1 million international arrivals by air, highlighting the country’s strong aviation connectivity. Land and sea arrivals accounted for smaller portions, with approximately 1.4 million and a marginal number, respectively.
Key source markets were led by Northeast Asia, contributing nearly 60% of total arrivals. China remains the top source with 2.7 million visitors, followed closely by South Korea with over 2.2 million. Japan, Taiwan, the United States, and India also contributed significantly to Vietnam’s inbound tourism figures.
Vietnam’s success is attributed to a combination of proactive government policies and industry initiatives. Visa exemptions for travelers from 15 countries—including new waivers for Poland, Czechia, and Switzerland starting March 1—and extensions of existing exemptions until 2028 for 12 other countries have played a pivotal role. In parallel, tourism authorities launched promotional campaigns and diversified product offerings to attract wider market segments.
Despite reaching only 49% of its ambitious 22–23 million visitor target for the year, industry stakeholders remain optimistic. The peak season from October to December is expected to contribute significantly to meeting the goal.
Vietnam’s tourism growth is also driving broader economic gains. The services sector expanded by 8.14% in H1 2025, the highest growth since 2011, underlining tourism’s critical role in national development.
With continued strategic efforts and robust regional demand, Vietnam is on track to consolidate its status as one of Asia’s most dynamic and resilient tourism destinations.