AGP Executive Report

New Air Links: Vietjet will add a direct Singapore–Nha Trang route from 11 Dec 2026, with four return flights weekly, easing travel to Vietnam’s south-central coast and complementing its existing Singapore–HCMC/Hanoi/Da Nang/Phu Quoc services. Big Fare Push: Vietjet is running a 12 million-ticket promotion across domestic and international routes in Vietnam, with sale bookings open until 8 Jun 2026 and travel spanning Sep 2026–Mar 2027 on selected routes. Philippines–Vietnam Connectivity: Vietjet plans direct Cebu–Ho Chi Minh City flights in Q4 2026, aiming to boost tourism and business travel between the two fast-growing markets. Outbound Tourism Watch: VNAT is urging tighter oversight of outbound tours for Vietnamese travelers, warning some trips are used as cover for undeclared purposes like illegal residence or work. Digital Payments for Travelers: Visa and Garmin launched Garmin Pay in the Philippines, enabling contactless smartwatch payments for eligible Visa cardholders—another step toward cash-lite travel. Tourism Demand Signals: Vietnam welcomed 10.6 million foreign visitors in Jan–May, reinforcing the recovery momentum.

Vietnam Tourism Numbers: Vietnam welcomed a record 10.6 million foreign visitors in Jan–May 2026, up 14.9% year-on-year, with May arrivals at 1.78 million; tourism-linked accommodation and food services revenue also rose to VND400.4 trillion. Quang Ninh Push: Quang Ninh is targeting VND65 trillion in tourism revenue this year after earning nearly VND27.7 trillion in Jan–May, driven by major events like Halong Carnival and a surge to 10.1 million visitors. Summer Travel Demand: Agoda data shows Indonesian families are boosting school-holiday travel interest, with accommodation searches up 224% for Phu Quoc and 236% for Batam. New Air Links: VietJet will launch direct Cebu–Ho Chi Minh City flights starting December (5 times weekly), adding to Vietnam–Philippines connectivity. Local Travel Convenience: The “Quanh Toi” app was launched to help travelers find nearby fuel stations, check prices and status, and report issues. Hanoi Costs: Hanoi CPI rose 0.28% in May, with transport and culture-tourism among the price movers.

Hanoi Street Life Under Pressure: Hanoi is clamping down on “curb culture,” clearing pavements of vendors, scooters and seating as fines are enforced and may rise—locals say it’s hurting livelihoods and changing what makes the city feel like Hanoi. HCMC Investment Pulse: Ho Chi Minh City reported $3.8bn in foreign investment over five months, with new projects and major equity stake deals driving inflows. Danang Luxury Retreat Opens: Danang Mikazuki inaugurated Mikazuki Villas – The Ryokan, a Japanese-inspired private-villa wellness concept set to welcome guests from mid-June. Tourism & Trade Links: Vietnam and the Philippines upgraded to an “Enhanced Strategic Partnership,” with talks also touching tourism connectivity and broader economic cooperation. Anti-Scam Crackdown: Cambodia launched coordinated raids on online fraud hubs and pushed stricter checks for foreign tenants at guesthouses and hotels. Animal Welfare Tool: Four Paws rolled out an online reporting system to help track dog and cat meat trafficking and pet theft, including tips from tourists. Travel Safety Watch: Vietnam’s complaint-resolution rules are being updated from July 2026, with more digital handling and clearer case classifications.

Vietnam–Philippines Tourism Boost: Vietnam and the Philippines signed a 2026–2029 tourism cooperation program in Manila, aiming to grow visitor exchanges, improve destination connectivity, and push sustainable tourism, with a working group to track progress through 2029. New Routes for Travelers: Vietjet announced direct Cebu–Ho Chi Minh City flights starting Dec 11, 2026 (five round-trips weekly), adding capacity and easing Vietnam–Philippines itineraries. Luxury on Halong Bay: Bhaya Soul launched Vietnam’s first wellness-focused cruise on UNESCO Halong Bay, capping guests at 40 for slow, mindful travel across Halong and Lan Ha. Hanoi “Kerb Culture” Crackdown: Hanoi is tightening enforcement against illegal footpath vending and parking, with fines set to rise—hurting some street vendors’ income as tourism demand remains strong. Tourism Pressure from Iran War: Soaring costs and flight disruptions linked to the Iran conflict are threatening Southeast Asia’s summer travel recovery, hitting tourism-dependent economies like Vietnam and Thailand. Brand Push in Vietnam: Vinpearl signed MoUs with CAITO and Klook to expand resort, golf, and MICE promotion across Vietnam’s key destinations to Filipino travelers.

Vietnam–Philippines Enhanced Strategic Partnership: Presidents Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and To Lam upgraded ties to an “Enhanced Strategic Partnership,” expanding defense, trade, digital transformation and people-to-people links, with both sides also reaffirming support for the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling and calling for self-restraint. Tourism & connectivity: The upgrade includes closer tourism cooperation, while Vietnam Airlines is reported to be expanding partnerships to strengthen Vietnam–Philippines connectivity. Da Nang tourism investment: Mikazuki Villas – The Ryokan (Phase 2) was inaugurated in Da Nang, adding a hotel tower and 14 luxury villas, as the Japanese-themed resort complex targets higher visitor numbers. Cruise push in Ha Long: Bhaya Cruises launched its 2026 Summer Collection with all-inclusive packages for Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay, including wellness-focused itineraries. Travel demand hit by Iran war: Soaring prices and flight disruptions tied to the Iran conflict are straining tourism-dependent Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, as summer travel recovery faces fresh pressure. Family travel product: Intrepid Travel unveiled a premium family collection with an 8-day Vietnam itinerary, featuring kid-friendly experiences and hand-picked stays. On-the-ground safety note: A Vietnam-related arrest case involving alleged links to a Samoa murder network is raising cross-border security concerns.

Vietnam–Philippines Upgrade: Vietnam’s President Tô Lâm’s Manila state visit saw the two countries elevate ties to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership, with new deals spanning defense, digital transformation, and a Tourism Cooperation Program 2026–2029 aimed at boosting direct flights and visitor numbers. Travel Disruption Watch: A separate report warns the Iran war is pushing up jet fuel and travel costs, risking weaker summer demand across tourism-dependent Southeast Asian markets including Vietnam. Vietnam Tourism Push: Khanh Hòa is betting on large-scale international events to drive summer arrivals, with major festivals and sports set to bring crowds through Cam Ranh. Payments for Travelers: Mastercard launched “Phone. Passport. Mastercard” to make cross-border spending easier across Vietnam and the region via digital offers for dining, shopping, stays, and transport. E10 Biofuel Rollout: Vietnam began nationwide E10 biofuel distribution on June 1, with fuel supply reported stable—important for tourism transport planning. On-the-ground Incident: In Da Nang, an Aussie tourist allegedly went on a violent rampage at Ge Cafe, smashing property in a 30-minute frenzy.

Diplomatic Boost: Vietnamese President Tô Lâm arrived in Manila for a two-day state visit, with talks expected to deepen cooperation on trade, investment, food security, defense and maritime issues, plus tourism and people-to-people links ahead of the 50th anniversary of Vietnam–Philippines ties. Tourism Pressure From Iran War: Soaring jet fuel costs and ceasefire uncertainty are hitting Southeast Asia’s tourism-dependent economies, with flight cancellations and higher ticket prices threatening the region’s peak summer travel season—especially for Vietnam and Thailand. Travel Safety & Disruption: An Australian tourist was arrested after allegedly smashing up a Da Nang cafe in a violent rampage, causing damage reported at about $26,000. Tourist Etiquette Backlash: Viral clips and debate continue over Indian travellers’ behaviour abroad, including garba videos and claims of “civic sense” issues, sparking renewed discussion on how visitors should act in public spaces. Regional Travel Links: Vietnam and Thailand are moving to expand air and tourism links under an ASEAN-focused push to strengthen connectivity.

Vietnam–India Defence Ties: India has confirmed a BrahMos supersonic cruise missile deal with Vietnam, saying it’s already signed (publicly unannounced) as part of wider ASEAN outreach at the Shangri-La Dialogue. Aviation & Tourism Connectivity: VietJet Air opened its Colombo office in Sri Lanka, with plans for Colombo–Ho Chi Minh City flights starting August 2026 (four round trips weekly), aiming to boost passenger services and travel agent support. Tourism Spending Watch: Pattaya’s low season is underway, but businesses and long-time visitors say the slowdown feels deeper—raising concerns that “high-quality” tourism focus may be squeezing the broader middle-income market. Payments for Travel & Trade: The State Bank of Vietnam and India’s RBI signed an MoU to boost digital payments, including cross-border QR merchant connectivity—aimed at easing transactions that support trade and tourism flows. Local Tourism Development: Hue is positioning itself for meditation, spiritual and healing travel, leaning into slower, quieter experiences beyond just heritage sightseeing.

Vietnam–Thailand Tourism Strategy: Thailand is pushing “Up Level, Add Story, Create Value” to lift revenue, while Vietnam targets top-30 competitiveness by 2030 with a “Strategic Dual Visa Policy” (45-day exemptions for target markets and 90-day e-visas) plus a “Visit Vietnam” super app planned for 2027. New Route for Travelers: VietJet Air opened its Colombo office to boost Sri Lanka–Vietnam travel and trade, with a Colombo–Ho Chi Minh City route expected to start in August 2026 (four round trips weekly). Healing Tourism in Hue: Hue is positioning itself as a slower, quieter destination for meditation, spiritual and healing experiences beyond classic heritage sightseeing. Extreme Heat Warning: Vietnam is seeing record-level summer heat, with authorities advising people to avoid peak outdoor hours as road surfaces can become dangerously hot. ASEAN Air Links: Vietnam and Thailand airlines signed an agreement to expand ASEAN air connectivity, supporting more regional travel options. Digital Payments for Cross-Border Travel: Vietnam’s State Bank and India’s RBI signed an MoU to develop cross-border QR merchant payments, aiming to ease transactions and support trade and tourism flows. Family-Friendly Summer Plans: Hanoi’s nationwide film week for International Children’s Day runs May 31–June 7, with mobile screenings and FPT Play online content.

Tourism Air Links: Thailand’s Tourism Authority and Vietnam Airlines signed an MOU to expand routes and boost flight frequencies, timed with the 50th anniversary of Vietnam–Thailand diplomatic ties, with additional MOUs also inked with airports and travel agents. Travel Tech & Payments: India’s RBI and Vietnam’s SBV signed an MoU to deepen cooperation in digital payments, including cross-border QR merchant payments and regulatory coordination. Vietnam Tourism Growth: Vinpearl announced new partnerships with Agoda, AirAsia MOVE, BeMyGuest and GlobalTix to widen international reach for its hotels, resorts and entertainment ecosystem. Rail & Visitor Experience: Vietnam Railways launched a 5G-enabled train with an AI service robot, aiming to upgrade onboard services for travelers. Viral Travel Etiquette Row: A new viral clip shows Indian tourists dancing on Hanoi’s Train Street, sparking backlash and renewed debate about behaving respectfully abroad. Culture & Tourism Diplomacy: Vietnam and Italy discussed closer collaboration across culture, sports and tourism, highlighting growing Italian visitor numbers and direct Hanoi–Milan flights.

Airport Etiquette Row: A viral clip of Indian tourists performing Garba on a Vietnam airport tarmac near a parked VietJet aircraft has sparked backlash over safety and restricted-zone conduct, with similar criticism after a Garba video on Hanoi’s Train Street. Tourism Payments Boost: Mastercard launched “Phone. Passport. Mastercard” across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam, offering 300+ travel promotions and pushing seamless cross-border digital payments. Rail Tech Upgrade: Vietnam Railways trialed a 5G-enabled QT3/4 multifunctional train on the Hanoi–Thai Nguyen route, adding an AI service robot and positioning the train as a mobile operations hub. Cruise Growth in Vietnam Region: Radisson Blu Resort Phu Quoc rolled out the “Blu Escape” family-focused summer offer, while Singapore’s STB signed a three-year Princess Cruises homeport deal that includes Vietnam ports. Vietnam as MICE Hub: Vietnam Exposition Center is being pitched as a bridge to the global experience economy, aiming to anchor international exhibitions and outdoor mega-events. Hotel Market Momentum: Avison Young reports strong Q1/2026 hospitality performance in Hanoi and HCMC, supported by new premium openings like IHG’s Rêve HCMC and Fairmont Hanoi. Regional Travel Links: TAT and Vietnam Airlines signed an MoU to boost tourism and air links, including new HCMC–Phuket service from July 2.

Sustainable Tourism Push: Gia Lai is courting Australian tour operators to build new, heritage-led products, highlighting the Tay Son legacy and UNESCO Space of Gong Culture as it targets Australia for growth. Travel Safety & Justice: Vietnam’s Ha Giang Loop crash that killed British student Orla Wates has led to charges against a motorcyclist, underscoring risks on popular “easy riding” routes. Airport Etiquette Sparks Debate: Viral footage shows Indian tourists performing Garba on a Vietnam airport tarmac near an aircraft, triggering online arguments about cultural celebration vs. safety rules. Cross-Border Security Upgrade: Fiji is setting up forensic document labs in Nadi and Suva to detect fake passports after suspects linked to a gang killing in Vietnam transited through Nadi. Regional Tourism Signals: Vietnam’s tourism revenue in Jan–May is reported to be nearing VND63 trillion, while broader tourism’s GDP share is said to have fallen to a three-year low. Cruise Growth in ASEAN: Princess Cruises plans a 2027–2030 expansion with more sailings from Singapore, including longer itineraries featuring Vietnam among key shore stops.

Vietnam Travel & Tourism: Vietnam will introduce new health quarantine and traveller declaration rules at border checkpoints from 1 July, with health declarations due within seven days before entry/exit/transit and possible proof of vaccination or preventive measures; quarantine officers will monitor travellers via observation, temperature checks and interviews, with inspections targeted to finish within two hours. Travel Infrastructure: Khanh Hoa opened a 20-km section of the Khanh Hoa–Buon Ma Thuot Expressway on May 28, linking National Highway 1 to the Van Phong–Nha Trang Expressway and National Highway 26, cutting the route distance once fully completed. Green Tourism Push: Vietnam’s tourism sector is accelerating its green transition, with localities and businesses rolling out eco-tours and “net zero” models; at VITM Hanoi 2026, green product lines were showcased, reflecting rising traveller demand for sustainability. Regional Tourism Business: Cambodia’s Tourism Minister opened Cambodia Travel Match 2026 in Phnom Penh, bringing about 200 international buyers (including from Vietnam) and local operators to expand networks ahead of the peak season. Aviation & Connectivity: Vietjet and Muang Thai Insurance signed a strategic cooperation deal during Vietnam’s General Secretary and President To Lam’s Thailand visit, focusing on insurance, sports, cultural exchange and community development. Tourism Spotlight: Northern Nha Trang is being promoted as a “new-generation” beach destination, highlighting its mix of mountains, forests and ocean bays plus cultural experiences like the Do Theater. Safety & Compliance Abroad: Laos detained staff at a backpacker hostel in Vang Vieng over suspected methanol poisoning deaths of foreign tourists, underscoring ongoing risks for travellers.

Summer Travel Picks: Agoda says Vietnamese holidaymakers are shifting toward “fresh” beach, mountain and culture spots, with Lý Sơn (Quảng Ngãi) leading emerging interest and Cebu also trending as a top international summer destination. Vietnam-Philippines Ties: Vietnam President Tô Lâm will visit the Philippines for two days (May 31–June 1), with talks covering trade, food security, defense/maritime cooperation, education, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. Air Travel & Visas: Bulgaria is fast-tracking visa processing for non-EU visitors and seasonal workers ahead of summer 2026, including staffing boosts in key markets such as Vietnam. Safety & Health Watch: WHO reports an Ebola outbreak in DR Congo with rising suspected cases and a “very high” risk level inside the country, prompting travel and health alerts. Regional Dispute: China and the Netherlands trade accusations after a Dutch frigate incident near the Paracel Islands, a reminder for travelers to the South China Sea area.

Vietnam–Philippines Diplomacy: Vietnamese President Tô Lâm will make a two-day state visit to the Philippines on May 31–June 1, with talks expected to cover trade, food security, defense and maritime cooperation, plus education, tourism and people-to-people links—marking the first state visit by Vietnam’s party leader and coinciding with 50 years of diplomatic ties. Tourism Growth Watch: Russian arrivals to Vietnam are rebounding strongly, with 504,000 visitors in the first four months of 2026; airlines are set to expand direct Hanoi–Moscow services from July 1. Family Travel Push: Intrepid Travel is launching a new Premium Family range, including Vietnam itineraries, designed for small groups with more comfortable stays and child-friendly experiences. Local Tourism Sustainability: Vung Tau (HCMC) is maintaining its ASEAN Clean Tourist City standing for three consecutive terms, citing beach clean-ups, anti-plastic measures and waste sorting. Expo Calendar: ITE HCMC returns for its 20th edition on Aug 27–29, aiming to boost international tourism connectivity and buyer–seller matching. Cross-border People Movement: An Giang received 137 Vietnamese citizens handed over by Cambodia after immigration and labor violations, with further verification underway.

Memorial Day Travel Shock: US holiday prices hit hard—gas up 28%, flights up 21%, coffee up 18%, and even hot dogs up 11%—as diesel stays near record highs tied to Middle East oil disruption and tight refining. Air Safety Rules: Airlines are cracking down on power banks and lithium-battery devices, warning passengers not to put them in checked luggage after recent diversions and fire-risk concerns. Cambodia Border Rumors: Cambodia’s immigration authority says entry is NOT being shut for travellers under 40, dismissing viral WeChat claims and stressing normal airport and land-check procedures. Vietnam in Region: Vietnam and the Philippines mark 50 years of ties, while Vietnam–Cambodia friendship groups pledge deeper youth-focused cooperation and stronger media/digital collaboration. Vietnam Travel Demand: Aussies are pushing “Asian summer” travel—Hanoi, Da Nang and Hoi An show the biggest growth.