Vietnam’s tourism sector has been boosting efforts in digital transformation in order to fully recover from the impact of Covid-19 and increase tourist numbers, speakers told the “Strengthening cooperation in the digital environment - Enhancing the travel experience” seminar held by Traveloka on November 16.

The seminar saw the attendance of representatives from the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), Departments of Tourism in some provinces, and tourism service providers from around the country.

A survey conducted by Traveloka revealed that Vietnam’s digital economy is expected to hit $23 billion this year and nearly $50 billion by 2025. The country has posted a significant increase in digital adoption, and its shift towards a digital economy is taking place within the context of a transition from a centrally-planned to a socialist-oriented market economy. Therefore, as in other sectors, promoting digital transformation in Vietnam’s tourism sector is to not only improve quality but also to offer the best service experience.

To raise efficiency from digital transformation, cooperation between tourism businesses and tech platforms plays a key role. “Cooperation will provide a strong foundation to accelerate the adaptation and application of digital transformation,” said Mr. Ha Van Sieu, Deputy General Director of VNAT. He added that tourism businesses will continue to make efforts to contribute solutions to sustainable development, making tourism a spearhead economic sector.

“With the strong recovery being seen in Vietnam’s tourism sector over recent months, digital transformation is an inexorable step forward, specifically through touchless tourism and smart tourism,” said Ms. Huynh Thi Mai Thy, Country Manager of Traveloka Vietnam. “We are constantly improving to offer breakthrough initiatives and programs to accelerate the digitalization of the tourism sector.”

Similarly, businesses in Vietnam’s tourism sector have also been promoting digital transformation in their business activities by introducing services through digital platforms. Mr. Pham Ba Hoa, General Director of the Le Sands Oceanfront Danang Hotel, said the strong application of technology plays a key role in maximizing revenue and attracting both domestic and foreign tourists.

For example, his hotel has deployed technology to collect tourist information for its data network and digital tourism platforms to bring the best experience to tourists. “Cooperation with digital platforms such as Traveloka has helped the hotel maximize revenue and helped tourists access its services more easily,” he said.

Ms. Thy also encouraged stakeholders to work together and ensure the sector’s sustainable development, because digital transformation is not just a temporary solution to disruptions from the pandemic but also a sustainable and long-term development strategy.