Vietnam aims for double-digit economic growth with tourism boost
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on April 10 signed for issuance of an official dispatch outlining a plan to accelerate tourism development, aiming to drive double-digit economic growth.
The official dispatch builds on the Politburo’s directive to make tourism a spearhead economic sector, with the PM’s directions already delivering notable success. Tourism has become a bright spot in Vietnam’s post-COVID-19 recovery, it said.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has been tasked with leading this effort. Priorities include launching the tourism stimulus program for this year and beyond, diversifying and improving tourism products and services, accelerating digital transformation and green transition in tourism development, collaborating with the People's Committees of provinces and centrally-run cities to enhance accessibility and convenience for tourists.
It was also asked to partner with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to leverage Vietnam’s diplomatic missions for tourism promotion, urge tourism companies to establish overseas offices and tap the overseas Vietnamese community to expand markets, according to VNA.
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| Tourists visit Tra Su forest in Tinh Bien township, the southern province of An Giang. (Photo: VNA) |
Other specific tasks were also assigned to relevant ministries, heads of the ministry-level and government agencies, the National Tourism Steering Committee, and chairpersons of the People's Committees of provinces and centrally-run cities.
Vietnam welcomed 17.6 million foreign visitors last year, a 39% annual surge, generating 840 trillion VND (33.6 billion USD) in revenue, up 24%. The first quarter of 2025 set a record with over 6 million foreign tourist arrivals, a 29.6% year-on-year rise.
This year, the sector expects to welcome 22-23 million foreign visitors and serve 130 million domestic travellers, with 12-13% revenue growth.
Vietnam, Brazil target US$10 billion bilateral trade over next two years
Vietnamese Ambassador to Brazil Bui Van Nghi opened the event by highlighting the steady progress in bilateral relations since diplomatic ties were established in 1989. He noted the significance of the strategic partnership upgrade on November 17, 2024, which marked Brazil as Vietnam's first strategic partner in South America, and vice versa for Vietnam in Southeast Asia.
The Vietnamese diplomat also recalled the outcomes of Brazilian President Lula da Silva's official visit to Vietnam in late March, during which both nations issued a joint statement launching a 2025–2030 action programme to deepen cooperation across key sectors.
Participants at the seminar actively discussed opportunities, challenges, and strategies in a bid to boost bilateral economic ties.
Victor Key, President of the Brazil-Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described Vietnam as a vital trade partner in Asia. He expressed optimism that bilateral trade could reach US$10 billion within the next two years, reported VOV.
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| A large number of visitors express keen interest in Vietnamese products at the ANUGA Food and Beverage Exhibition in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo: Vietnam Trade Office in Brazil) |
Bruno Romano, Commercial Director of GreenLife Solution, emphasised Vietnam's appeal as a high-potential market for Brazilian exports such as beef, poultry, and grains. He also said that Vietnam is a reliable supplier of raw materials including frozen fruits, plastic resins, iron, steel, and aluminium for Brazilian industries.
Pham Hong Trang, head of the Vietnam Trade Office in Brazil, underlined the economic complementarity between the two countries. "Brazil, Latin America’s largest economy, is strong in agriculture, energy, and manufacturing- sectors that align well with Vietnam’s strategy to diversify its export markets amid global trade realignments," she said.
During the exhibition, held from April 8 to 10, Vietnamese businesses showcased a variety of signature food and beverage products, including dried pho, instant noodles, canned goods, chocolate-coated dried fruits, tea, coffee, and healthy grains. They engaged in networking sessions with supermarket chains and distributors in Brazil, aiming to tap into the country’s 230 million-strong consumer market.
This year’s edition of the exhibition attracted over 500 companies from 23 countries and welcomed more than 16,000 visitors from 33 nations.
April 30, 1975 victory – a testament to Vietnam’s great nation unity
The April 30, 1975 victory was a defining moment not only for Vietnam but also for the global revolutionary movement, marking the end of the anti-US war and leading to national reunification under the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV)’s leadership, said Chairman of the Union of Vietnamese Associations in Japan Dr. Nguyen Hong Son.
Speaking to Vietnam News Agency correspondents in Tokyo ahead of the 50th anniversary of the victory, Son described the victory as the culmination of decades of struggle for national independence and reunification. With this historic achievement, Vietnam officially unified the North and the South, ushering in a new era of national development.
On the global stage, the victory reverberated profoundly, proving that even a small nation, with determination and strong leadership, could overcome a global superpower. This inspired anti-colonial and independence movements worldwide while reshaping global perspectives on military intervention, influencing the foreign policies of major powers for decades.
The April 30, 1975 victory remains a powerful testament to the resilience, courage, and unyielding commitment to independence and freedom of the Vietnamese people and oppressed nations globally, Son affirmed.
Highlighting Vietnam’s remarkable progress since that pivotal day, he noted that the nation has transformed from an underdeveloped agricultural economy into one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Today, Vietnam boasts a dynamic economic landscape, with thriving industry, services, and agriculture sectors. Manufacturing and technology have seen exceptional growth, drawing substantial foreign investment and elevating Vietnam’s global economic standing.
Infrastructure upgrade has been a cornerstone of this rise. Significant investments in transportation networks, seaports, airports, and digital systems have bolstered trade, tourism, and quality of life for citizens. Education, too, has been a vital driver, with the modernisation and expansion of the educational system reaching even the remotest mountainous and island regions. This focus on cultivating a skilled workforce has enhanced productivity and economic competitiveness.
Son credited Vietnam’s sustainable development to political stability and effective governance. Administrative reforms, improved transparency, and enhanced management efficiency have instilled confidence among investors and the global community, reported VNA.
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| Chairman of the Union of Vietnamese Associations in Japan Dr. Nguyen Hong Son in an interview with the Vietnam News Agency (Photo: VNA) |
According to him, Vietnam’s growing global stature has been widely recognized, with its active involvement in international organizations, the signing of numerous free trade agreements, and a pivotal role in ASEAN. These efforts have not only elevated Vietnam’s international image but also opened doors for economic cooperation and development.
National unity, he stressed, remains the bedrock of Vietnam’s success. It fosters social harmony, ensures political stability, and preserves traditional cultural values while strengthening education, healthcare, and national defence. Diplomatically, Vietnam has demonstrated exceptional acumen, normalising relations with the US, joining ASEAN, and forging strategic partnerships through free trade agreements, all of which have enhanced its global influence.
In strategic sectors, Vietnam has prioritized investments in information technology, renewable energy, and other key industries, generating employment and propelling economic growth.
Reflecting on the enduring lessons of the 1975 victory, Son stressed their relevance as Vietnam deepens its global integration. The flexibility and creativity displayed during the independence struggle must now guide the nation through the challenges of the digital economy and Industry 4.0.
“Businesses and individuals must embrace innovation, seek groundbreaking solutions to capitalize on opportunities and create value in today’s dynamic environment”, he urged, adding that leaders, in turn, must provide clear direction, make timely and sound decisions, and steer society through digital transformation and global economic integration.
Son concluded that the April 30, 1975 victory continues to offer timeless values and inspiration, guiding Vietnam as it builds on its historic achievements to secure a prosperous future under the CPV’s visionary leadership.
Bun cha listed among Asia’s best meat dishes by Taste Atlas
Vietnamese cuisine continues to shine on the international stage as several iconic dishes, including bun cha, bo nhung giam, and bo kho, have been listed among Asia's top meat dishes by the renowned culinary guide Taste Atlas.
Bo nhung giam earned an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars, ranking 8th on the list. The dish was highly praised by Taste Atlas for its flavor and cooking style.
“This is a type of hotpot featuring a tangy broth made from vinegar, sweetened with coconut water, and infused with lemongrass, onions, and other aromatic spices. Once the broth is boiling, diners dip thin slices of beef and various vegetables into the pot. Shrimp, squid, and other seafood are also often added,” Taste Atlas wrote.
Experts and readers of Taste Atlas also highlighted the importance of quality rice paper and fermented anchovy dipping sauce (mam nem) as essential components that elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
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| Bun cha has become increasingly popular among international visitors to Hanoi. Photo: Obuncha |
Three other Vietnamese beef dishes also made the list: bo luc lac at position 32, bo kho (beef stew) at 59, and bo la lot (beef wrapped in betel leaves) at 76.
Two standout pork-based dishes from Vietnam were also featured: thit kho tau (caramelized pork and eggs) at number 79, and bun cha at 93.
Described by Taste Atlas as a "symphony of flavors," bun cha blends the refreshing coolness of vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs with the rich aroma of charcoal-grilled pork.
Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Zagreb, Croatia, Taste Atlas is recognized for mapping and curating traditional dishes from around the world.
According to its founder Matija Babić, the site’s rankings and awards are based on expert opinions and reviews from culinary critics to ensure credibility.
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