The Pearl Island’s Tourism Conundrum

According to the Kien Giang Province Tourism Department, Phu Quoc welcomed 3.3 million visitors in the first half of 2024, a modest increase of 1% from the same period last year. International arrivals reached nearly 500,000, a significant surge of 44% year-on-year, accounting for almost 75% of the annual plan. Estimated revenue exceeded VND 11,200 billion, a healthy rise of over 26% from 2023, achieving close to 66% of the annual target.

Ms. Le Thi Hai Chau, Secretary-General of the Phu Quoc Tourism Development Investment Association, believes that these statistics don’t fully reflect the rebound of Phu Quoc’s tourism industry. The corresponding period in 2023 witnessed a stagnant phase for the island’s tourism, which also faced negative feedback from visitors regarding pricing and service quality.

While some airlines have introduced deep discounts for flights between mid-July and the end of September, with round-trip fares from Hanoi to Phu Quoc reduced by VND 2.2-4.2 million compared to the Lunar New Year and April 30 holidays, these promotions may not significantly boost tourism demand for Phu Quoc.

“This period marks the end of the summer travel season in Phu Quoc, and it’s also the rainy season, which isn’t ideal for vacations. To effectively stimulate tourism demand, airlines should implement fare reductions before the peak season each month, allowing businesses to prepare and giving travelers time to consider their destinations,” added Ms. Chau.

To further invigorate Phu Quoc’s tourism industry, many local businesses and tourism managers hope to attract more international visitors and encourage them to stay longer on the island.

Mr. Pham Van Sy, a tourism service provider in Duong Dong ward, suggested that in addition to airfare adjustments, Phu Quoc should address visa-related matters. He proposed that the authorities open an immigration office on the island to provide free visa extensions for visitors wishing to stay long-term.

Ms. Chau echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that Phu Quoc, and Vietnam in general, should primarily focus on attracting international tourists. To compete for this market segment, Phu Quoc requires a unique mechanism.

From a management perspective, Mr. Bui Quoc Thai, Director of the Kien Giang Province Tourism Department, shared that the industry has actively promoted and marketed Phu Quoc in various domestic provinces and cities, as well as in India, Cambodia, the UK, and soon, Taiwan and South Korea. Additionally, the island has hosted delegations of enterprises and fam trips from other countries to explore its products and services.

“In anticipation of the upcoming peak season for international visitors, numerous tourism events and activities are scheduled in Kien Giang until the end of the year, including the Phu Quoc City Tourism Week, welcoming ceremonies for international flights, and events like the BIM Group IRONMAN 70.3 Phu Quoc and Sunrise Sprint. These events are expected to attract a substantial number of international visitors to Phu Quoc,” Mr. Thai informed.