Cambodia, India fastest-recovering markets for Vietnam’s inbound tourism

Laos ranked third with an increase of 117%, followed by Thailand at 108% and Singapore 107%, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

A visa-free stay of up to 30 days for countries such as Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia and Laos made Vietnam popular among tourists from Southeast Asia.

The launch of a series of direct routes in recent years has made Vietnam a top pick among Indian travelers.

Two markets that recovered close to pre-pandemic levels were the United States at 95% and Australia at 92%.

Some other markets that have been witnessing impressive recovery were Germany at 84%, the U.K. 79% and South Korea 77%.

China, which used to be Vietnam’s biggest tourist senders before the pandemic, recovered more than 22% after the Chinese government resumed group tours to Vietnam on March 15.

In the first half of this year, Vietnam received more than 5.5 million visitors, 69% of this year’s eight-million target.

South Korea sent the highest number of visitors to Vietnam with more than 1.6 million arrivals, accounting for 28% of the total. China ranked second with 557,000, followed by the United States with 374,000.

The National Assembly on June 24 approved extending tourist e-visas from 30 to 90 days, starting from August 15.

Upon being granted an e-visa, a foreigner can now enter and exit unlimited times within the period, without having to go through procedures for obtaining a new visa.

Industry insiders hope to see a jump in arrival numbers following the extension.