Vietnam’s tourism industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the country’s commitment to becoming a prominent player in the digital era. With a robust strategy in place, Vietnam is utilizing its burgeoning internet connectivity to shape a smart tourism ecosystem. The objective is not only to boost the tourism sector but also to leverage it as a key driver of the national economy.
Vietnam’s tourism development strategy, set for 2030 and approved by the Prime Minister in early 2020, envisions a future where technology permeates every aspect of the tourism industry. This vision entails the creation and evolution of a smart tourism ecosystem that will harness the power of digital innovation. As part of this strategy, the country is actively working to accelerate its digital transformation process.
One of the pivotal indicators of Vietnam’s readiness for this transformation is the impressive growth in internet penetration. In the first half of the year, the Ministry of Information and Communications reported that 78.59% of the country’s population had access to the internet, surpassing this year’s target. This milestone showcases the country’s commitment to expanding its digital infrastructure, creating a fertile ground for the digital evolution of various sectors, tourism being a primary focus.
Vietnam’s efforts in digital transformation are also in sync with global trends. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the number of internet users worldwide increased by 100 million in a single year, demonstrating the global appetite for digital services. With approximately 5.4 billion people, equivalent to 67% of the world’s population, having access to the internet, the stage is set for Vietnam to tap into this vast online audience.
Aside from the internet penetration rate, Vietnam’s mobile broadband subscribers have also witnessed a substantial surge. The country boasts 85.7 million mobile broadband subscribers, signifying the growing demand for mobile connectivity and the potential for developing tourism-related mobile applications and services.
The increased accessibility to the internet and mobile broadband has opened up a world of opportunities for Vietnam’s tourism sector. Vietnam’s ambitious endeavor to become a key player in the digital era is rapidly taking shape. With a high rate of internet penetration and an ever-growing number of mobile broadband subscribers, the country is well on its way to realizing its smart tourism ecosystem vision. The digital transformation of Vietnam’s tourism sector not only promises economic growth but also an enriched experience for travelers and sustainable practices that protect the nation’s beautiful destinations. As the world increasingly turns to digital solutions for travel and exploration, Vietnam’s commitment to this transformation ensures its place on the global tourism map.