Sustainable development of sea and island tourism

Tourism and marine services were identified as maritime economic sectors with successful and breakthrough development by 2030 in order of top priority, according to Resolution 36-NQ/TW of the Central Committee dated October 22, 2018, on "Strategy for sustainable development of Viet Nam's marine economy to 2030, with a vision to 2045".

Experts said that Viet Nam's sea tourism in recent years has developed rapidly, becoming one of the most advanced forms of tourism, contributing to raising the country's tourism brand in the international market.

However, Viet Nam's sea tourism still has many limitations and shortcomings. Specifically, investors have focused on short-term profits due to financial pressure, low environmental investment resources, and unreasonable zoning at many scales and levels.

Besides, the length of stay of tourists is still low due to high seasonality and lack of typical tourist products. In addition, the tourism infrastructure, especially the cruise ship port system, remains insufficient.

Viet Nam's tourism industry, including sea tourism, just temporarily has recovered after the COVID-19 pandemic. The potential for sea and island tourism is clear but it is difficult to turn it into a driving force for development.

The marine economy is also a national strength, but it is necessary to ensure that the core task of development must be associated with ensuring security and defense.

Besides, tourism sector needs to promote high-class and world-class resort tourism associated with environmental protection, promoting traditional cultural values, organizing appropriate use of zoning space, and increasing investment in infrastructure development./.