Proposed Southeast Asian Shared Visa Zone Could Boost Vietnam's Tourism
"Six Countries, One Destination" initiative aims to facilitate seamless travel across the region
A shared visa zone for Southeast Asia, similar to Europe's Schengen visa mechanism, is being proposed to enhance regional tourism. The "Six Countries, One Destination" initiative involves Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, aiming to allow tourists to travel freely between these nations. On the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in Laos on October 9, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his Thai counterpart agreed to pilot this tourism initiative.
Originally proposed by Thailand in April 2024, the shared visa plan is expected to boost the local tourism industry by attracting more international visitors. Industry experts like Nguyen Quoc Ky, Chairman of Vietravel Corporation, emphasize the importance of swift action to capitalize on post-pandemic tourism demand. Ky notes that while neighboring countries have been quick to implement open visa policies, Vietnam has been slower to evolve, currently offering visa exemptions to citizens of 26 countries compared to Thailand's nearly 100.
However, experts also warn that a shared visa policy could intensify competition among the six countries. Cao Tri Dung, Chairman of the Da Nang Tourism Association, stresses the need for Vietnam to develop high-quality, unique tourism products to ensure tourists stay longer and spend more. By showcasing its distinct cultural offerings and diverse climate, Vietnam can stand out in the regional tourism race. Success will depend on how quickly and effectively the country prepares to leverage this opportunity.
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Originally proposed by Thailand in April 2024, the shared visa plan is expected to boost the local tourism industry by attracting more international visitors. Industry experts like Nguyen Quoc Ky, Chairman of Vietravel Corporation, emphasize the importance of swift action to capitalize on post-pandemic tourism demand. Ky notes that while neighboring countries have been quick to implement open visa policies, Vietnam has been slower to evolve, currently offering visa exemptions to citizens of 26 countries compared to Thailand's nearly 100.
However, experts also warn that a shared visa policy could intensify competition among the six countries. Cao Tri Dung, Chairman of the Da Nang Tourism Association, stresses the need for Vietnam to develop high-quality, unique tourism products to ensure tourists stay longer and spend more. By showcasing its distinct cultural offerings and diverse climate, Vietnam can stand out in the regional tourism race. Success will depend on how quickly and effectively the country prepares to leverage this opportunity.
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