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In the context of observing the increasing appeal of tourism in Vietnam, EuroCham proposes that Vietnam expands the list of visa exemptions for EU countries.
According to a statement from the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham Vietnam) on July 17, the association has sent a letter to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and relevant Vietnamese authorities, suggesting the expansion of visa exemption for tourism to cover all 27 European Union (EU) member countries.
Currently, Vietnam’s visa exemption list includes seven EU member countries, namely Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland.
EuroCham acknowledges Vietnam’s recent efforts to simplify the visa system and hopes for additional measures to fully leverage the significant potential of the Vietnam-EU economic relationship and to stimulate strong economic growth.
“This visa expansion will bring a substantial number of visitors from the EU market, with over 500 million people. By removing barriers for international visitors – those with high spending potential when visiting Vietnam, we are confident that it will open up fantastic opportunities for Vietnam’s tourism industry after challenging years,” said Mr. Gabor Fluit, Chairman of EuroCham Vietnam.
The association cites the latest report from Google Destination Insight, which confirms Vietnam’s potential as a “sought-after tourist destination,” ranking among the “top 7 most searched tourist destinations” and being the “preferred choice of global tourists.” “Vietnam is also the only Southeast Asian country to make it to the top 20, showcasing its attractiveness and popularity,” the statement added.
Furthermore, Vietnam’s allure as a favored destination for foreign direct investment is considered “quite evident.” According to EuroCham’s latest Business Climate Index (BCI) survey conducted by Decision Lab, nearly half of the respondents (48%) expressed optimism about an increase in their company’s FDI in Vietnam in the coming quarter. Vietnam maintains its position among the top 5 leading investment destinations for more than one-third of the surveyed companies. The continuous reduction of import tariffs facilitated by the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), combined with efforts to address administrative hurdles raised by BCI respondents, will further enhance Vietnam’s investment prospects over time.
Mr. Gabor Fluit emphasizes, “Improvements in visa exemptions, along with the introduction of the Michelin Guide and Lonely Planet’s recognition of Vietnam’s North-South railway as the most remarkable railway, could be the answer to the tourism sector’s contribution to Vietnam’s GDP growth. Combining these initiatives, along with the increasing global recognition and interest in Vietnam, presents immense potential to drive economic growth and position Vietnam as a top destination in the context of global tourism.”
