Vietnam surges in global tourism rankings as sector gains momentum

The World Economic Forum released its 2026 Travel & Tourism Development Index this week, with Vietnam scoring 4.15 points and securing 52nd place among 110 assessed economies. The advance represents a significant upward trajectory for the Southeast Asian nation, which has now risen seven positions since the 2024 rankings and eleven places since 2019.

Vietnam's improved standing reflects broader efforts to strengthen its position as a tourism destination. The country has been actively developing its tourism infrastructure and services while positioning itself as an increasingly attractive option for international visitors seeking Southeast Asian experiences.

The country has set ambitious targets for the sector, aiming to attract 50 million international visitors while generating 90 billion USD in tourism revenue. Officials have identified MICE tourism—meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions—as a strategic priority, recognizing the segment's potential to drive higher-value visitor spending and economic benefits.

The improved ranking comes as Vietnam continues to invest in enhancing its travel and tourism ecosystem. The sector's growth trajectory underscores the nation's potential within the competitive Asian tourism landscape, where regional destinations are increasingly competing for international visitor share.