Partnering for Sustainability: How DMCs and Operators Can Align Goals

Why Sustainable Partnership Matters Now

Sustainable development is a must for successful international teamwork. The world is shifting to “responsible travel,” where ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) is the key way to check partners. International Tour Operators feel pressure from customers and global groups for clear actions on transparency, conservation, and social effects.

UN Tourism notes Vietnam as the top growth spot in the first half of 2025, tied with Japan. Vietnam tourism grew 21% from last year. From the General Statistics Office (Ministry of Finance): In the first 6 months of 2025, over 10.66 million international visitors came, up 20.7% from 2024, with revenue at 518 trillion VND. For the first 8 months, 13.9 million visitors, up 21.7%. Experts say relaxed visas, more global ads, and new flights to hot spots drive this recovery. This makes Vietnam the perfect test market for sustainable models.

True sustainability in tourism isn’t achieved by one company—it’s built through aligned goals and shared accountability.

Understanding Each Role: DMCs vs. Tour Operators

Clear roles and duties in the tourism chain are key.

Tour Operators (TOs) build product strategies, marketing, and client experiences. They focus on ESG compliance and service quality.

Destination Management Companies (DMCs) act as local reps, handling operations, logistics, and direct community impact. They serve as “local guardians” for destinations.

The current issue: Many DMCs and TOs lack sync on sustainable goals, leading to green marketing but gray execution. We need a “Shared Sustainability Framework” to move toward one goal together.

The Sustainability Alignment Framework

Three main pillars help DMCs and TOs coordinate for sustainable wins.

Shared Vision – Build Common Goals

Both sides agree on ESG criteria and long-term values (carbon footprint, community impact, inclusivity). Add these to contracts and operations.

“Start the partnership with purpose, not just with price.”

Transparent Operations – Clear Execution

Set up joint monitoring: Reports on waste, energy, and CSR. Use digital tools (e-briefing, sustainability dashboards).

Local Empowerment – Give Back to Communities

Prioritize local suppliers and CSR activities (tree planting, beach cleanups, heritage preservation). Co-design tours and events for real social value. Connect local groups for sustainable circles.

Phan Van DMC’s Case: When Goals Align, Impact Multiplies

Phan Van DMC partnered with a travel operator on a MICE tour model.

Challenge: The partner wanted authentic, community-based experiences in Vietnam—from eco-tours and craft villages to local gastronomy workshops. They needed a DMC to design and run these responsibly, respecting ESG standards and local values.

Results: The Green MICE program ran fully and on time, with smooth experiences for over 300 guests.

The gala dinner was ESG-certified, optimizing logistics, food, and decor to cut plastic waste and carbon emissions.

Phan Van DMC’s media team provided pro photos and videos, helping the partner’s global ESG campaigns.

The event got 9.2/10 on organization and brand experience, opening more MICE opportunities in Asia-Pacific.

Lesson: A sustainable MICE program shows operational strength and long-term commitment between DMC and the international partner. When both share ESG goals, each event becomes a base for strategic ties—creating business value and green tourism growth at the destination.

How DMCs and TOs Can Align in Practice

• Practical guidance for action.
• Start Early: Discuss ESG goals from the proposal stage.
• Measure Together: Set clear targets for emissions, CSR, and local spending.
• Communicate Constantly: Use transparent reports and real data, not just PR.
• Invest in Education: Train staff on both sides about global sustainable standards (GSTC, ISO 14001).

Phan Van DMC – Your Local Partner for Global Sustainability

• We pioneer sustainable partnerships with our one-stop sustainable system, cutting 60% intermediaries and logistics emissions.
• We run Green Event Policies and Community-Based Tourism Projects in Central Vietnam.
• Our commitment: Transparency, support, and growth together—“We grow when our partners grow.”

Conclusion: Step Forward Together

In Vietnam’s booming tourism market, aligning with sustainability opens doors to lasting success. By using this framework, DMCs and TOs can build strong, green partnerships that benefit everyone—clients, communities, and businesses. Phan Van DMC is ready to lead the way. Partner with us for responsible travel that makes a real difference.