Tourism Industry Prospects in Vietnam’s Kiên Giang Province

August 23, 2024 Posted by Vietnam Briefing Reading Time: 3 minutes

We look at investment prospects in the tourism industry in Kiên Giang Province, located in South Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region, as it targets 23.7 million visitors by 2030 with its pristine islands, luxury resorts, and diverse cultural attractions.

Kiên Giang Province, located in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam, is rapidly emerging as a top tourist destination with a strategic plan to significantly boost its tourism industry by 2030. With an ambitious goal of becoming a leading tourism hub, the province is capitalizing on its abundant natural resources, diverse landscapes, and unique cultural heritage to attract both domestic and international visitors.

Strategic tourism goals

The provincial government of Kiên Giang has outlined a comprehensive tourism development plan that sets ambitious targets for the next decade. By 2025, the province aims to welcome 10.7 million tourists, including 900,000 international visitors. This figure is projected to rise to 23.7 million tourists by 2030, with 1.7 million expected to be from overseas. These targets reflect the province’s commitment to leveraging its tourism potential to drive economic growth.

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The primary focus areas for attracting tourists include major markets such as Southeast Asia, South Korea, and China. In addition, Kiên Giang is expanding its outreach to European travelers and exploring new markets in India and the Middle East. This diversified approach is designed to ensure a steady influx of tourists from various regions, bolstering the province’s tourism revenue.

Natural attractions and unique experiences

Kiên Giang is blessed with a rich array of natural attractions that are integral to its tourism appeal. The province is home to five pristine archipelagos, with over 143 islands of varying sizes. Among these, Phú Quốc Island stands out as a premier eco-tourism and resort destination, renowned for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a national park that spans over 31,422 hectares. This park preserves rare tropical forest plant species and offers visitors an immersive natural experience.

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The coastal city of Hà Tiên also boasts significant tourism strengths, particularly as part of the R10 tourism route that connects Vietnam with Cambodia and Thailand. This route presents substantial opportunities for economic and tourism development, attracting travelers from neighboring countries. Hà Tiên’s ten must-see landscapes, including Mũi Nai Beach, Nam Phố Beach, and Đá Dựng Mountain, offer tourists a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.

Moreover, Kiên Giang’s U Minh Thượng National Park, recognized as a world biosphere reserve, adds to the province’s appeal. The park’s unique ecosystem of melaleuca forests on mudflats is a haven for biodiversity, making it a valuable site for ecological research and nature-based tourism.

Diversified tourism offerings

In line with global tourism trends, Kiên Giang is diversifying its tourism offerings to cater to various traveler preferences. The province is promoting community-based tourism, allowing visitors to engage with local cultures and traditions. Religious tourism is another focus area, with several temples and shrines in the province attracting pilgrims and spiritual seekers.

Agricultural tourism, particularly in craft villages, is being developed to showcase Kiên Giang’s rural charm and traditional farming practices. The Hà Tiên International Border Gate is also positioned as a hub for trading and tourism, enhancing cross-border interactions and commerce.

Furthermore, the province is investing in luxury wellness tourism, particularly in Phú Quốc, where high-end resorts and wellness centers are being established. This segment is aimed at attracting affluent tourists seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a serene, natural setting.

Investment and infrastructure development

To support its tourism ambitions, Kiên Giang is actively seeking investments through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to develop tourism infrastructure. The province is calling for investment to upgrade and expand Rạch Giá Airport and Phú Quốc International Airport, which are critical for improving accessibility and accommodating the expected increase in tourist arrivals.

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Currently, Kiên Giang has 940 accommodation establishments with 33,275 rooms, including 26 four- and five-star hotels and resorts. High-end properties such as InterContinental, Vinpearl Resort, Novotel Resort, and JW Marriot Resort are already operational, providing world-class hospitality services. The province has also seen the development of entertainment facilities, including casinos, safaris, sea-crossing cable cars, and 18-hole golf courses, further enhancing its tourism appeal.

Economic impact

Tourism is poised to become a key driver of economic growth in Kiên Giang. The province aims to generate VND38 trillion (US$1.52 billion) in tourism revenue by 2025, contributing 13 percent to its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP). By 2030, tourism revenue is expected to reach VND105 trillion (US$4.19 billion), accounting for 17.5 percent of the GRDP. The sector is also projected to create 38,600 jobs by 2025 and 65,500 jobs by 2030, providing significant employment opportunities for the local population.

Conclusion

Kiên Giang Province’s strategic plan for tourism development is set to transform it into one of Vietnam’s leading tourist destinations. With its rich natural resources, diverse attractions, and robust investment in infrastructure, the province is well-positioned to attract millions of visitors in the coming years. As it continues to expand its tourism offerings and enhance its global appeal, Kiên Giang is poised to become a major player in Vietnam’s tourism industry, driving economic growth and creating lasting socio-economic benefits for its residents.

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