Vietnam has taken a strategic step toward expanding its international tourism presence by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with VFS Global, the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions managing visa and consular processes.
The agreement was signed by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) and VFS Global, establishing a framework for cooperation aimed at strengthening Vietnam’s global tourism promotion and connecting the country with a wider network of international travel industry stakeholders.
The partnership comes as competition among Southeast Asian destinations intensifies, with countries seeking to attract a larger share of the growing international travel market.
Partnership to Focus on Global Tourism Promotion
Under the MoU, VNAT and VFS Global will collaborate in several key areas, including research into international tourism markets and traveler trends, organization of overseas promotional programs, industry networking and digital tourism promotion.
The two sides will work to better understand changing traveler preferences and identify potential markets for Vietnam’s tourism industry. The partnership will also facilitate international promotional activities aimed at presenting Vietnam’s destinations, tourism products and experiences to travelers around the world.
Another major area of cooperation will be connecting Vietnamese tourism stakeholders with travel agencies, airlines, media organizations and international partners.
The collaboration is expected to help create stronger links between Vietnam’s tourism industry and global travel networks while supporting the country’s ongoing digital transformation in tourism promotion.
VFS Global Brings Extensive International Network
VFS Global’s global presence is expected to provide Vietnam with an additional platform for reaching international markets.
The company works with 71 governments and operates more than 4,200 service centers across 169 countries and territories. Its extensive network provides access to travelers at different stages of the international travel journey, particularly those seeking visa and consular services.
Vietnam’s partnership with VFS Global therefore goes beyond traditional destination marketing. By working with an organization already connected to millions of international travelers, Vietnam aims to strengthen its visibility among potential visitors before and during their travel-planning process.
Tourism Authority Highlights Global Ambitions
Nguyen Trung Khanh, Chairman of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, said the partnership would help strengthen Vietnam’s international engagement and expand connections with tourism, aviation, media and business sectors.
He emphasized the authority’s commitment to working closely with VFS Global and other partners to turn the commitments outlined in the MoU into practical initiatives.
The cooperation is expected to contribute to Vietnam’s efforts to improve its competitiveness and establish itself as an increasingly attractive destination for international travelers.
Digital Transformation Becomes Key Focus
Digital tourism promotion is another important component of the agreement.
As travelers increasingly rely on digital platforms to research destinations, compare travel options and plan their trips, Vietnam is seeking to strengthen its digital presence and use new approaches to reach potential visitors.
The partnership will explore opportunities to support digital-era tourism promotion, helping Vietnam respond to changing consumer behavior and reach international audiences more effectively.
Vietnam Sets Ambitious 2026 Tourism Targets
The agreement comes as Vietnam sets ambitious targets for its tourism industry in 2026.
The country aims to welcome 25 million international visitors and 150 million domestic tourists during the year.
Achieving these targets will require stronger international promotion, wider market diversification and closer cooperation between government agencies and private-sector tourism stakeholders.
The new partnership with VFS Global is expected to support these efforts by helping Vietnam access new markets and strengthen its international tourism network.
Strengthening Vietnam’s Position in Global Tourism
The MoU reflects Vietnam’s broader strategy of moving beyond conventional tourism promotion and developing partnerships with organizations that have an established presence in international travel markets.
By combining VNAT’s destination knowledge and tourism expertise with VFS Global’s extensive international network, the partnership aims to create new opportunities for market research, destination promotion, business networking and digital engagement.
If effectively implemented, the cooperation could help Vietnam strengthen its visibility among international travelers and support its ambition to become one of Southeast Asia’s leading tourism destinations.
The partnership also highlights a broader trend in global tourism, where destinations are increasingly working with international service providers, technology companies and travel networks to reach potential visitors and build stronger tourism ecosystems.
