Vietnam boosting efforts to entice international tourists

Recognising the power of cinema in promoting tourism, Vietnam has launched the “Vietnam - New Destination for World Cinema” campaign in the United States.

Ho An Phong, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Culture

The Vietnam tourism and cinema promotion event held in San Francisco and Hollywood has opened new avenues for showcasing the country’s image, people, and culture through cinema, one of the most impactful and connective forms of art.

The initiative aims to bring Vietnam closer to international audiences, particularly in the US, one of the largest and most culturally diverse markets. It presents Vietnam as an ideal destination for tourists and a highly attractive location for filmmakers, directors, and actors from across the globe. Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage are highlighted as unique assets that can serve as outstanding film locations.

Through cinematic portrayals of Vietnam, international audiences will not only experience the country’s natural beauty, culture, and people in a vivid and intimate way, but will also be inspired to visit and explore the country first-hand.

The initiative seeks to promote Vietnam’s tourist destinations and showcase the nation’s potential as a filming location, with the goal of attracting Hollywood film productions. This, in turn, is expected to boost international tourism to Vietnam. Key activities of the programme include organising delegations to promote cooperation in tourism and cinema development, setting up exhibitions to showcase Vietnam’s culture, and hosting seminars on the country’s tourism and film potential. The event also includes networking receptions and traditional art performances.

The initiative is expected to pull in over 450 attendees, including government officials, business leaders, investors, members of the American Film Association, film producers, Hollywood stars, media representatives, and influencers from various online travel and social media platforms.

Cinema and tourism are intrinsically linked, each supporting and enhancing the other. While cinema showcases the beauty of a country’s landscapes and people, tourism allows visitors to experience these images in real life. This event aims to foster partnerships between filmmakers and tourism businesses, unlocking the full potential of both industries.

Vietnam eagerly invites cooperation from international film partners, especially from the US. The country is committed to creating the best conditions for foreign film crews, offering support with administrative procedures and providing detailed information on potential filming locations. Additionally, the programme offers an excellent opportunity for Vietnamese filmmakers to learn from top Hollywood professionals, helping elevate the quality and international standing of Vietnam’s film industry.

The Vietnamese government has consistently prioritised culture, tourism, and cinema as essential pillars for economic growth and promoting the country’s image abroad. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism remains committed to working with international partners, developing tailored programmes, and providing policy support to ensure sustainable growth in these sectors.

Vietnam's Top 10 international tourist markets South Korea has remained the largest international tourist market for Vietnam since the beginning of this year, while China has risen to second position after more than two months of reopening to international travel.

Vietnam enjoys record number of international tourists Vietnam welcomed over 1.2 million international tourists in November, the highest monthly number since the beginning of the year.