HANOI: Localities across Vietnam held ceremonies on January 1 to greet visitors on the first day of the New Year 2025, expressing optimism for continued prosperity in the tourism sector. The celebrations mark the start of a year filled with high expectations following significant achievements in the industry over the past year.

According to Vietnam News Agency, Vietnam’s tourism sector experienced remarkable growth in 2024. The number of international visitors reached nearly 17.5 million, reflecting a 38.9% increase compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, domestic tourism also saw an uptick, with 110 million local visitors, up by 1.6%. This surge in tourist numbers contributed to a substantial rise in revenue, with total earnings from the tourism industry reaching approximately 840 trillion VND (32.96 billion USD), a 23.8% increase from the previous year.

The ceremonies held across various localities not only celebrated the influx of new visitors but also underscored the importance of tourism as a key driver of economic growth in Vietnam. Officials and industry stakeholders are hopeful that the positive trends will continue into 2025, further bolstering the country’s economy and international reputation as a tourist destination.

As Vietnam continues to enhance its tourism offerings and infrastructure, the nation aims to attract even more visitors in the coming years, building on the momentum gained in 2024. The emphasis on welcoming tourists reflects the country’s commitment to expanding its hospitality sector and providing enriching experiences for both international and domestic travelers.