Exploring the Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall Cross-Border Tourism Zone: A New Era of Collaboration Between China and Vietnam

China-Vietnam Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall

cross-border tourism cooperation zone

The Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall, nestled along the border of China and Vietnam, is not only a stunning natural wonder but also a symbol of international cooperation and sustainable tourism. As the largest cross-border waterfall in Asia and the fourth-largest globally, the Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall has become a key focal point for tourism development, with both nations working together to foster a new kind of travel experience that benefits both their economies and their cultures.

MEK which became operational on October 15, 2024, brings together China’s Chongzuo city in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Vietnam's Cao Bang province. The establishment of this cross-border zone marks a significant step toward enhancing bilateral tourism and creating a more seamless travel experience for visitors from both nations.

A Unique and Collaborative Travel Experience

The China-Vietnam cross-border tourism zone is designed to make travel between the two countries as smooth and efficient as possible. Tourists from both China and Vietnam can now enjoy facilitated customs clearance services within the cooperation zone, a major development that eliminates the usual complexities of cross-border travel. With streamlined group bookings, time-limited cross-border travel, and designated tour routes, this zone offers a well-managed and efficient experience for visitors seeking to explore the stunning Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall from both sides of the border.

Set amidst lush landscapes, the Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall is an awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can take in panoramic views from both countries, experiencing the cascading waters as they flow between the two nations. The waterfall serves not only as a natural attraction but also as a key element in building stronger ties between China and Vietnam through tourism.

Encouraging Sustainable Tourism and Local Development

One of the key focuses of the cross-border tourism zone is sustainability. Both China and Vietnam have made it a priority to ensure that tourism development in the area aligns with environmental preservation goals. Local communities on both sides of the border are working together to ensure that the area’s unique natural and cultural heritage is protected while allowing for the growth of tourism.

The Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cross-border tourism zone offers a model for sustainable tourism by managing tourist flow and creating eco-friendly infrastructure. The careful planning of group entry and exit, as well as set travel routes, helps mitigate the impact of tourism on the delicate ecosystem surrounding the waterfall. Furthermore, tourism revenue is being reinvested into the local economy, benefiting both Chinese and Vietnamese communities that rely on tourism for their livelihoods.

A Step Toward Greater Regional Cooperation

The Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cooperation zone is the first of its kind in China, and its success could provide valuable lessons for future cross-border tourism ventures around the world. The model promotes bilateral cooperation, bringing together both governments, tourism agencies, and the private sector to create a mutually beneficial environment for all stakeholders.

Since its launch, the zone has already shown promising results. According to official data from the Chinese side, from October 15 to December 15, 2024, there were 4,430 Chinese visits to the Vietnamese side of the zone, as well as 886 inbound Vietnamese visits to the Chinese side. These numbers demonstrate the zone’s appeal and the potential for increasing cross-border tourism traffic in the coming years.

The successful operation of the Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall zone is seen as an important step in China and Vietnam’s broader goals of enhancing regional connectivity and fostering closer ties. By working together, both countries can unlock the full potential of the region as a major tourist destination, while also ensuring that tourism remains a sustainable and respectful activity.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, the China-Vietnam Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cross-border tourism zone is set to become a prime example of how two countries can collaborate on tourism development while preserving their natural wonders. Both governments have expressed interest in expanding the scope of cooperation in the future, potentially including other nearby attractions and cultural sites, further enriching the travel experience for tourists.

As the zone continues to grow, it’s expected that more tourists will flock to the area, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the waterfall while experiencing the rich cultural heritage of both China and Vietnam. With its focus on sustainable development, efficient management, and international collaboration, the Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cross-border tourism zone promises to be a leading example for other regions looking to promote cross-border tourism in a responsible and mutually beneficial way.

Conclusion

The Detian-Ban Gioc Waterfall cross-border tourism zone is a testament to the power of collaboration between China and Vietnam. By offering a unique travel experience that highlights the natural beauty of the area and fostering sustainable tourism practices, this initiative is paving the way for a new era of international travel. As the zone continues to evolve, it will no doubt attract increasing numbers of tourists, helping to strengthen the ties between the two nations while preserving one of the most iconic waterfalls in the world.