Vietnam and Laos are strengthening their tourism cooperation, with a significant increase in the number of tourists traveling between the two countries. Last year, over 837,000 Vietnamese tourists visited Laos, marking a 133% increase from the previous year. Similarly, more than 120,000 Lao tourists traveled to Vietnam, showing a 155% increase compared to the previous year.
In the first quarter of this year, over 263,000 Vietnamese tourists visited Laos, making Vietnam the second largest source of foreign visitors to the country during that period. On the other hand, Laos was among the top 15 tourism markets for Vietnam, with 33,000 Lao travelers visiting the country.
Lao Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism Suansavanh Viyaketh highlighted the importance of tourism in fostering the special friendship between the two countries. She mentioned that Vietnamese tourists were interested in visiting Vientiane and Vangvieng, while Lao tourists were keen on exploring Vietnam’s historical and cultural sites and scenic spots.
To further promote tourism collaboration, both countries have organized various cultural and tourism promotion programs, including a culture and tourism week showcasing the northwestern region of Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City in Laos. Minister Viyaketh emphasized the need for closer attention to tourism collaboration through delegation exchanges, facilitating immigration activities, encouraging businesses to boost tourism development, and jointly promoting tourist destinations. With convenient travel options between the two countries, including land borders and direct flights, the tourism industry is expected to continue thriving.