Located in the southwestern region of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is a cultural and natural treasure trove, boasting an expansive water-based ecosystem and a distinct local identity. However, despite its immense potential, the region’s tourism industry remains fragmented, with little coordination between provinces. To address this issue, the Government has implemented measures to boost the “smokeless industry” of the Mekong Delta, focusing on regional linkage and restructuring the tourism sector towards professionalism.
Challenges in the Mekong Delta’s Tourism Industry
- A lack of regional coordination: Each locality in the Mekong Delta offers unique attractions, but the tourism experience is fragmented, with little coordination between provinces.
- Visitors often describe the destinations as “beautiful but similar,” citing a lack of innovation.
- Challenges in inter-provincial transport and accommodation also hinder the tourism experience.
- Even international tourists face difficulties, such as a lack of English-language information and a cumbersome booking process.
Local traders also noted the lack of inter-provincial tourism connections, making trade unpredictable. The fragmentation of the tourism industry leads to a lack of cohesive tourism products, with infrastructure, especially water transport and digital tourism services, remaining underdeveloped.
New Direction for Regional Tourism
| Administrative Unit Reorganisation | New Structure | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Merging administrative units in the Mekong Delta | Five provinces—Tay Ninh, Vinh Long, Dong Thap, Ca Mau, and An Giang, and Can Tho City | Streamlined management, better resource consolidation, and collaboration |
| Clarification of regional strengths | Can Tho leads in tourism, with Soc Trang and Hau Giang known for community-based tourism and Khmer festivals | Focus on unique offerings and structured tourism development |
| Formation of new provinces | Tien Giang, Dong Thap, Bac Lieu, and Phu Quoc | Increased eco-tourism potential, mangrove forests, and coastal renewable energy projects |
Tran Viet Phuong, President of the Mekong Delta Tourism Association, emphasized the importance of streamlining in reorganizing tourism. With reduced administrative units, provinces can cooperate on cross-regional tourism projects, creating a more integrated experience.
Key Measures for Sustainable Growth
- Improved infrastructure focused on waterway transport and digital technology
- Raising the quality of human resources
- Supporting local communities in preserving their cultural values
- Strengthening regional cooperation through joint councils and shared information systems
Nguyen Vu Khac Huy, Vice Chairman of the An Giang Tourism Association, suggested focusing on thematic tours that highlight history, culture, and literature. River-based tourism, including luxury river cruises and overnight boat trips, could extend stays and boost spending.
For sustainable growth, key measures must be implemented, including improved infrastructure, advancing digital technology, raising the quality of human resources, and supporting local communities in preserving their cultural values.
The Future of the Mekong Delta’s Tourism Industry
The restructuring of the administrative unit in the Mekong Delta is a strategic effort to enhance tourism management. With improved cooperation between local authorities, the region has the potential to attract both domestic and international visitors, elevating its status within Vietnam and positioning it on the global tourism map.
“The Mekong Delta’s tourism industry has immense potential, but it requires a coordinated effort to unlock its full potential. We need to work together to create a unified approach to tourism development and ensure long-term growth.”
With the Mekong Delta’s unique cultural and natural resources, it is poised to become a major player in the global tourism industry. By focusing on regional cooperation, professional tourism development, and sustainable growth, the region can unlock its potential and attract visitors from around the world.
The Mekong Delta’s tourism industry is on the cusp of a major transformation, driven by the need for regional coordination and professional development.
