Shaping tourism’s growth poles

Vietnam’s new tourism strategy puts Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang at the center of an effort to create internationally competitive growth engines, while gradually turning Phu Quoc into a fourth pole.

Resolution 26-NQ/TW, issued by the Politburo on Aug. 22, 2026, sets ambitious targets for tourism as a leading economic sector. By 2030, tourism is expected to contribute 10% to 12% of gross domestic product, welcome 45 million to 50 million international visitors and serve 160 million domestic travelers. The strategy places particular emphasis on visitors who spend more and stay longer. Total tourism receipts are projected at $80 billion to $90 billion.

By 2045, Vietnam aims to rank among the world’s 30 most competitive tourism countries. The resolution’s notable shift is not limited to visitor numbers or revenue. It calls for a reorganization of the industry’s growth space, including three major tourism poles, 10 key tourism centers and 20 national tourism zones. Phu Quoc would gradually be developed as a new growth pole.

The approach moves beyond isolated infrastructure projects or largely independent local development. International gateways are to connect with tourism centers through air links, expressways, railways and seaports. Strategic investors are expected to develop cultural, sports and entertainment complexes, shopping facilities, island and coastal resorts, health-care services, and attractions that can operate throughout the day and night.

Hanoi is positioned as a major international air gateway and the center of northern tourism, linking the capital’s heritage, culture and cuisine with Quang Ninh, Ninh Binh, Hai Phong and the northern mountainous provinces. Ho Chi Minh City brings a large tourism and services market, international air links, commerce, food, entertainment, MICE and a night-time economy. From its position in the southern economic region, it can also distribute visitors to the Southeast, the Mekong Delta and coastal and island destinations. Da Nang, meanwhile, has established itself as a central tourism hub for Vietnam’s central region, with strengths in beach resorts, events and MICE.