How to Navigate Vietnam’s Travel Market Like a Local Expert | Phan Van DMC

Vietnam’s tourism market is offering great opportunities for international partners who want to explore its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and unique travel experiences. In the first eight months of 2025, Vietnam welcomed nearly 14 million international visitors, a 21.7% increase compared to 2024.

However, navigating challenges like local supplier networks, cultural differences, and regulations requires local know-how. Partnering with a trusted Destination Management Company (DMC) like Phan Van DMC makes it easier to save money, simplify operations, and deliver amazing guest experiences.

Understanding Vietnam’s Tourism Market

Vietnam is a top travel destination in Southeast Asia, known for its diverse attractions and strong growth.

Market Growth

In August 2025, Vietnam saw 1.68 million international visitors, up 16.5% from last year. For the first eight months of 2025, total arrivals reached nearly 14 million, a 21.7% increase, even during the quieter season.

Key Visitor Countries

• China: +44.3% growth
• India: +42.2% growth
• Japan: +17.1% growth
• Europe (UK, France, Germany): +18–23% growth
• Russia: +164.9% growth, thanks to strong marketing efforts
• Southeast Asia (Philippines, Cambodia, Laos): Growing steadily

Challenges

Despite the growth, international partners may face issues like scattered suppliers, language barriers, and unreliable operators. A trusted DMC helps solve these problems by offering a clear, dependable solution.

What Makes Vietnam’s Travel Market Unique

Vietnam’s tourism industry is exciting but complex. There are many operators, but quality and service can differ across regions (North, Central, South). Each area has its own culture, landscapes, and logistics. Building strong local relationships and understanding the market are as important as contracts. A good DMC bridges the gap between international needs and local operations, ensuring smooth experiences for guests.

Tip: Don’t just pick the cheapest supplier. Choose a partner who knows the local culture, communicates well, and handles operations effectively.

Common Challenges for International Partners

Entering Vietnam’s travel market can be rewarding, but it comes with challenges:

• Language and Culture: Misunderstandings happen when suppliers don’t speak English well or aren’t familiar with international expectations.
• Inconsistent Quality: Service standards vary between cities and regions, which can affect guest experiences if not managed properly.
• Regulations: Rules for visas, insurance, and tour permits differ by province, which can be tricky for newcomers.
• Problem Handling: Without local support, small issues like flight delays or guest complaints can become big problems, especially for large groups or MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events) programs.

Using too many intermediaries can also raise costs by 20–30% and slow things down. Some partners even face risks from unlicensed suppliers or fake agencies, leading to lost money or damaged reputations. A licensed DMC like Phan Van DMC ensures clear communication, consistent quality, and peace of mind.

How to Build Strong Partnerships in Vietnam

To succeed in Vietnam, focus on building reliable local partnerships. Here’s how:

• Choose a DMC that offers full services, including tours, transport, hotels, and MICE, all under one system.
• Work with a partner who speaks your language and provides a single contact point to avoid confusion.
• Share clear plans, expectations, and cultural preferences early to avoid problems.
• Join familiarization trips (famtrips) or visit destinations to understand the market and suppliers better.

Pro Tip: Partner with Phan Van DMC, a 24/7-supported DMC with a nationwide network. We help you cut up to 30% of costs while keeping quality high and operations clear.

Sustainable and Future-Ready Practices

Vietnam’s tourism future depends on sustainability, and smart partners are already adapting. Emerging trends include:

• Eco-friendly MICE programs that combine travel with green business events.
• Sustainable logistics that support local communities and reduce environmental impact.
• Long-term partnerships that focus on shared goals, not just quick deals.

Highlight: Phan Van DMC’s one-stop, sustainable model cuts out up to 60% of intermediaries, saving time, money, and the environment while delivering high-quality service.

Key Takeaways for International Partners

• Know the market well and choose your partner carefully.
• Build clear, long-term partnerships for better results and brand value.
• Adapt to local culture and rely on on-the-ground expertise instead of just chasing low prices.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s travel market is full of potential, but success depends on handling its challenges with the right local support. By partnering with Phan Van DMC, you can simplify operations, reduce costs, and create memorable travel experiences for today’s eco-conscious travelers. Work with us to build strong local connections, adopt sustainable practices, and unlock the full potential of Vietnam’s tourism market—easily, clearly, and responsibly.