Thursday, 12 June 2025

Phu Quoc Goes Green: The Island Journey to a Fuel-Free Future

Part of Phu Quoc Island. Photo by VnExpress/Ngoc Thanh
A Bold Vision for a Greener Paradise

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s famed island retreat in the Gulf of Thailand, is embarking on a groundbreaking mission: to eliminate gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles entirely. The plan, directed by the central government, aims to transform Phu Quoc into one of the world’s most environmentally friendly islands by 2030.

This bold initiative marks a major shift for the island, long popular for its luxury resorts, white sand beaches, and biodiverse ecosystems. Now, it’s not only looking to welcome tourists—it wants to lead global eco-tourism by example.

Green Transformation by 2030

Phu Quoc has been tasked with a phased plan to transition away from fossil fuel-powered transport while preserving the island’s ecological treasures. The roadmap includes completing the digital transformation of city services by 2027, with full green transformation targeted for 2030.

The plan goes beyond simply swapping combustion engines for electric motors. It promotes the sustainable use of natural resources such as land, forests, and freshwater systems, ensuring that the island’s growth doesn’t come at the expense of its environmental integrity.

Fuel-Free Island, World-Class Hospitality

With global tourism trends increasingly favoring sustainable travel, Phu Quoc’s move aligns perfectly with the expectations of environmentally conscious visitors. Tourists arriving in the coming years will gradually see the shift—from electric shuttle buses to solar-powered transport options connecting the island’s resorts, attractions, and natural sites.

As fuel-based transport fades from view, visitors can expect a quieter, cleaner travel experience through Phu Quoc’s national parks, marine reserves, and bustling town centers. All this without sacrificing the high standards of hospitality the island is known for.

Spotlight on APEC 2027

The 2027 APEC Summit, set to be hosted on Phu Quoc, is a major milestone in this green journey. Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung emphasized the summit as a golden opportunity to fast-track infrastructure upgrades and position Vietnam as a leader in sustainable development.

Projects connected to APEC will be prioritized into two categories: those critical for the summit’s immediate needs and those aligned with long-term environmental and tourism goals. The summit’s legacy will live on through thoughtfully planned infrastructure designed for lasting use well after the event.

Eco-Tourism and Marine Conservation

Phu Quoc isn’t just banking on policy changes—it’s also protecting what draws tourists to its shores in the first place. Home to 22 islands spread across nearly 590 square kilometers, the Phu Quoc marine area boasts coral reefs, tropical fish species, and some of the most vibrant forest and marine ecosystems in Southeast Asia.

From snorkeling in An Thoi’s turquoise waters to exploring Phu Quoc National Park’s dense forest trails, the island offers a uniquely immersive natural experience. This transition to clean transport is designed to preserve these attractions while enhancing the island’s sustainability credentials.

A Blueprint for the Region

The changes coming to Phu Quoc may set a precedent for other tourism-heavy destinations in Southeast Asia. By proving that economic development and ecological responsibility can go hand in hand, Phu Quoc is positioning itself as both a holiday haven and a model for the future of travel.

As electric vehicles hum along its coastal roads and green policies take root, Phu Quoc’s evolution will likely inspire other island destinations to follow suit—making tourism not only a source of income, but a force for global environmental progress.

Website Contact

For more updates on Phu Quoc’s green tourism strategy and development initiatives, visit:
https://www.kiengiang.gov.vn

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine"
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

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