Mekong Tourism Forum 2025: A Unified Vision for a Sustainable Future

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   Mekong Tourism Forum

  Charting the Path to a USD 200 Billion Visitor Economy by 2030
  

On 27 June 2025, the Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) concluded its impactful event in the charming city of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. The forum brought together over 230 delegates from 20 countries and 92 organizations, united by the theme "United Journey – Stronger Together." This year’s forum showcased the growing momentum in regional tourism collaboration as the Mekong region accelerates towards a projected USD 200 billion tourism economy by 2030. With an eye on future growth, the discussions and strategic directions revealed at the MTF are set to steer the region into a new era of sustainable tourism.

A Shared Vision for Sustainable Tourism Growth

The centerpiece of this year’s forum was the unveiling of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Tourism Strategy 2030. This strategy represents a unified effort by the GMS National Tourism Organizations, the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), development partners, and a range of stakeholders. The goal is to create a framework that balances economic growth with sustainability, inclusivity, and regional cooperation. As the Mekong region faces an increasing influx of global travelers, there is a collective determination to ensure tourism development remains ecologically sound, culturally respectful, and economically beneficial for all involved.

Key Areas of Focus for the Future

The GMS Tourism Strategy 2030 is structured around four key pillars that will guide the development of tourism in the Mekong region over the coming years:

• Building Sustainable Destinations: Ensuring that tourism development in the region respects the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage.
• Developing Human Capital: Focusing on training, capacity building, and creating skilled workforces that are essential for the future of tourism in the region.
• Strengthening Stakeholder Engagement: Encouraging collaboration between government bodies, the private sector, local communities, and tourists for a more inclusive tourism model.
• Destination Marketing under a Unified GMS Identity: Promoting the Mekong region as a single, integrated destination with a unique cultural and natural identity that resonates globally.

The aim is to develop a tourism industry that is not only resilient but also inclusive and responsible, ensuring long-term benefits for all stakeholders.

Turning Vision into Action

According to Suvimol Thanasarakij, Executive Director of MTCO, “The strategic directions of the GMS Tourism Strategy 2030 are a major milestone for our regional tourism cooperation. We are proud to support this journey by fostering collaboration, strategic dialogue, and helping turn vision into action.” This statement underscores the commitment of the Mekong countries to move forward as a unified front, working together to make the vision of a sustainable, prosperous, and cohesive tourism sector a reality.

The Road Ahead: Collaboration and Regional Cooperation

As the Mekong region continues its journey toward becoming a global tourism powerhouse, the MTF has established the framework for a future that combines growth with responsibility. The mission may have only just begun, but the dedication of regional leaders and stakeholders is clear. With the GMS Tourism Strategy 2030 now in place, the Mekong region is poised to become a model of regional cooperation in tourism, balancing economic development with the preservation of its invaluable cultural and natural assets.

Website: www.mekongtourism.org
Email: info@mekongtourism-mtco.org

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