Growth prospects for Vietnam’s event tourism in 2025

How do you assess the future of business tourism in Vietnam in 2025, considering professionalism and the country’s digital transformation?

Indronil Sengupta, chairman of the Indian Business Chamber in Hanoi

Vietnam’s event tourism sector is on the verge of significant growth, driven by the country’s digital transformation and commitment to sustainable development. The outlook for this sector in 2025 appears highly promising, with several key trends signalling its potential for growth.

A crucial element behind this growth is the government’s focus on clear policies and fostering partnerships within the tourism industry. These efforts are positioning Vietnam as a competitive player in the regional market. A notable 35 per cent increase in business tourism revenue in early 2024 highlights the country’s strong recovery and the growing global interest in its offerings.

Vietnam has also proven its capability in hosting large-scale business events, demonstrated by the successful arrival of 4,500 Indian visitors. This shows the country’s ability to meet the demands of sophisticated business travellers, making it an appealing destination for corporate events.

What key conditions are needed to develop event tourism in regions beyond Vietnam’s major cities?

While Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City are currently the primary hubs for Vietnam’s event tourism, regions like Quang Ninh and Khanh Hoa are rapidly emerging as competitive alternatives. These areas are beginning to showcase their potential and growing importance within the sector.

To unlock the full potential of these emerging destinations, several key steps must be taken. First, substantial investment in infrastructure is essential, particularly in modernising transportation networks and building state-of-the-art venues that can meet the specific needs of the event industry. This would significantly enhance the overall experience for event organisers and attendees, making these regions more attractive for international conferences and corporate events.

Equally important is improving service quality. By implementing robust training programmes for local staff in hospitality, event management, and customer service, these regions can raise their service standards, ensuring a seamless and positive experience for all participants.

What are the main challenges the event industry in Vietnam will face this year?

The industry in Vietnam is currently grappling with several significant challenges. Among the most pressing issues are a fragmented market, a lack of systematic connections between key industry players, and an insufficient level of professional training for the workforce. These issues hinder growth and limit Vietnam’s ability to compete with established regional destinations.

Despite these challenges, significant opportunities lie ahead, particularly in emerging markets like India. The growing middle class, expanding corporate sectors, and increasing international business activities in such market like India create strong demand for high-quality business services. This provides Vietnam with an opportunity to position itself as a preferred destination for Indian companies hosting international events.

To leverage this opportunity, we can support growth by professional training to improve local expertise. Beyond training, we can broaden the country’s presence in the global market by cultivating strategic partnerships between Vietnamese businesses and international firms.

Given Vietnam’s focus on sustainable tourism, could this be a major factor in attracting more foreign investors this year?

Vietnam’s commitment to green transformation plays a pivotal role in attracting foreign investors. The country’s focus on eco-friendly practices resonates with the values and priorities of many international businesses eager to invest in responsible initiatives.

By positioning itself as a green destination that emphasises environmental protection, Vietnam not only aligns with global trends but also strengthens its appeal to foreign investors looking to engage in the event tourism industry. This alignment creates a powerful incentive for responsible investment.

For example, Indian companies, particularly those with a strong emphasis on corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship, will find Vietnam’s sustainable tourism agenda highly attractive.

The alignment between Vietnam’s green transformation and Indian investors’ focus on relevant models creates a significant opportunity for collaboration and investment in the coming year.

The country can actively engage with the Indian business community, emphasising its commitment and showcasing the competitive advantages of its eco-friendly offerings.

Growth prospects for Vietnam’s event tourism in 2025

What are your predictions for these shifts, and how can Vietnam capitalise on new opportunities?

It is set to undergo significant changes, with digital innovation and sustainability at the forefront. These trends will reshape the industry, influencing how events are organised and experienced worldwide.

The adoption of digital technologies will be crucial, with organisers and venues investing in advanced digital infrastructure, virtual and hybrid capabilities, and data-driven analytics to enhance attendee experiences. Simultaneously, there will be increasing demand for eco-friendly practices, with destinations prioritising green initiatives and responsible tourism.

Vietnam is poised to capitalise on its targets and rich cultural heritage to emerge as a key player in global event tourism. By enhancing its digital infrastructure and promoting eco-friendly practices, the country is well-positioned to attract the expanding international market such as India, where demand for high-quality, innovative, and responsible business events is on the rise. This strategic focus will bolster Vietnam’s competitive edge on the international stage.

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