Vietnam welcomed 9.2 million international visitors between January and May 2025, a 21% jump from last year and a 15% increase compared to the same period in 2019, before the pandemic. Tourism leaders' credit relaxed visa rules, active promotions, and holiday events for the surge.
Vietnam’s Tourism Recovery Gathers Pace with Record-Breaking May
Vietnam’s tourism industry continues to rebound strongly in 2025, receiving 9.2 million international visitors in the first five months of the year, according to the General Statistics Office. This marks a 21% increase over the same period in 2024 and notably 15% higher than pre-Covid levels recorded in 2019.
Even with the high season winding down, May alone attracted 1.53 million foreign arrivals, the highest for the month in a decade.
Top Source Markets and Growth Drivers
Mainland China remained Vietnam’s largest source of international tourists, contributing 2.36 million arrivals. South Korea followed with 1.9 million, then Taiwan (532,000), the United States (375,000), and Japan (342,000).
In terms of growth rates, Russia led the surge with a 221% year-on-year increase, followed by the Philippines (over 200%), Cambodia (over 160%), and India (134%).
Strategic Policy and Promotion Efforts Pay Off
Tourism analysts attribute the continued momentum to several key factors:
- Eased visa policies that simplify entry for more nationalities
- Aggressive promotional campaigns targeting key international markets
- Festive events and celebrations surrounding national holidays, which drew significant interest
As Vietnam enters the second half of 2025, officials are optimistic about maintaining growth and further expanding the country’s reputation as a vibrant and accessible destination in Southeast Asia.