EuroCham’s Tourism and Hospitality Sector Committee visits Binh Thuan to explore tourism promotion collaboration

On 23 August 2023, the EuroCham Tourism and Hospitality Sector Committee visited Binh Thuan Province for a dialogue on investment opportunities in tourism, renewable energies, and future collaboration.

The Sector Committee held a meeting with Binh Thuan authorities, including the Department of Culture, Sport & Tourism; the Department of Industry and Trade; the Department of Planning & Investment; the Department of Construction; and the Binh Thuan Tourism Promotion Center.

In his speech, EuroCham Tourism and Hospitality Sector Committee Chairman Mario Mendis emphasized Binh Thuan’s advantageous location only two to two and a half hours from Ho Chi Minh City. He suggested Binh Thuan focus on developing retirement and medical tourism offerings to target high-income European tourists, especially Nordic travelers who are looking for warm weather destinations during winter months.

Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Vietnam Business Forum Martin Koerner raised several concerns about current tourism conditions in Binh Thuan. He expressed strong concerns about litter scattered across beaches and public areas, stating this detracts from Binh Thuan’s image as an attractive destination. Koerner also raised beach safety as a serious issue, suggesting Binh Thuan create designated swimming areas clearly marked to keep water sports activity separated from passive beachgoers. Finally, he noted beach erosion is a worsening problem in Binh Thuan and stated the private sector is willing to support provincial authorities with expertise and resources to tackle this environmental threat.

Other points discussed during the meeting included the need for Binh Thuan to improve destination marketing and communication with tour agencies and travel companies based in Ho Chi Minh City. This would enable Binh Thuan to attract more day trips and weekend travelers from the major metro area. There was also a proposal for Binh Thuan to proactively target solo travelers and digital nomads who can stay in the province long-term while working remotely. The area’s beautiful beaches and low cost of living makes it well-suited for remote workers.

Bui The Nhan, Director of the Binh Thuan Department of Culture, Sport and Tourism, appreciated the feedback and agreed to seriously address the issues raised. He suggested signing an MoU with EuroCham’s Tourism & Hospitality Sector Committee for further collaboration. The signing ceremony is scheduled for October 2023.

Regarding renewable energy opportunities, the Department of Planning & Investment will work closely with EuroCham given Binh Thuan’s potential for offshore wind investment.

After the meeting, the group visited Anam Mui Ne, SeaLinks and Cantara Mirage resort for a site visit and introduction from representatives of DoC, DPI and DoIT.

The successful visit opened an important dialogue on tourism development and investment opportunities in Binh Thuan Province. EuroCham and its network of Sector Committees are eager to engage in collaborative partnerships with provincial authorities across Vietnam. These partnerships allow for a two-way exchange of ideas, insights, and expertise that support local economic development goals. EuroCham hopes this will be the beginning of a fruitful partnership with Binh Thuan provincial leaders.

Want to join the Tourism & Hospitality Sector Committee? Email Sector Coordinator Ngoc Anh Pham at anh.pham@eurochamvn.org for more info.