Stronger Together: Mekong Nations Unite for a Sustainable Tourism Future

Mekong Tourism Forum

A New Chapter for the Greater Mekong Subregion

In a landmark step toward a more sustainable and inclusive tourism landscape, six Mekong nations have unveiled the final draft of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Tourism Strategy 2030 at this year’s Mekong Tourism Forum in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. With a focus on high-quality tourism development, regional collaboration, and the advancement of secondary destinations, this strategy marks a bold new vision for one of Asia’s most culturally rich and biodiverse regions.

Tourism That Benefits All

The GMS Tourism Strategy 2030 was developed through close collaboration between senior tourism officials from Cambodia, the People’s Republic of China (Yunnan and Guangxi), Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam. Guided by the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) and supported by the GMS Economic Cooperation Program, the strategy aims to ensure that tourism growth brings tangible benefits to local communities, small businesses, and travelers alike.

Key focus areas include building sustainable destinations, empowering human capital, deepening stakeholder engagement, and advancing joint destination marketing. Digital transformation, environmental stewardship, inclusivity, and private sector engagement are key themes that weave throughout the entire plan.

A Shared Vision and Regional Commitment

Mekong Tourism Forum

“The GMS Tourism Strategy 2030 is a practical roadmap with a shared vision for the region,” said Suvimol Thanasarakij, Executive Director of MTCO. “It reflects our collective commitment to addressing common challenges and unlocking the potential of tourism to benefit local communities, businesses, and travelers alike. We are proud to support this journey by fostering collaboration, strategic dialogue, and helping turn vision into action.”

Tourism as a Regional Powerhouse

Tourism continues to serve as a critical engine of economic growth and cultural exchange across the Mekong. In 2024, international arrivals across the GMS exceeded 69 million, demonstrating strong recovery momentum. Intra-GMS travel remains robust, with over 9.5 million cross-border trips in 2023 alone.

According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the Mekong region’s visitor economy is on track to reach a staggering USD 200 billion annually by 2030—making strategic planning and sustainable growth more important than ever.

Collaboration in Action

The 2025 Mekong Tourism Forum brought together more than 230 delegates from 20 countries and 92 organizations. Government leaders, tourism businesses, development partners, media, and civil society joined forces under the theme “United Journey – Stronger Together” to share knowledge, celebrate progress, and strengthen the foundation for future cooperation.

This year’s forum served as a timely reminder that cross-border partnerships and shared goals are essential to tackling the climate crisis, managing tourism responsibly, and ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Mekong.

About the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office

Mekong Tourism Forum

Since its founding in 2006, the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office has played a central role in advancing tourism cooperation across the GMS. With the support of development partners, MTCO continues to champion initiatives that promote inclusive growth and environmental sustainability, while positioning the Mekong as a premier regional tourism destination.

For more information, visit: www.mekongtourism.org

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