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Phu Quoc, known as the Pearl Island of Vietnam, is rapidly reinforcing its prominence in the global travel scene, having welcomed a staggering more than 5.7 million visitors in the first half of 2026. This figure includes over 1.3 million international travelers and highlights the island’s blossoming status as a must-visit destination, particularly as preparations ramp up for APEC 2027.
Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Special Zone is making headlines with its exceptional tourism achievements. During the initial six months of 2026, the island has not only welcomed a remarkable number of both local and international tourists, but has also generated impressive financial returns. This surge in tourism comes at a pivotal moment as the island gears up to host the esteemed APEC Leaders’ Week 2027, which is anticipated to put Phu Quoc on the global travel map.
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According to official statistics, Phu Quoc recorded 5.7 million visitors from January to June 2026, a notable 30.2 percent increase from the same period in 2025. The appeal of the island increases as more travelers seek out its tropical paradise, world-class resorts, and premium tourism offerings.
The island has also seen a remarkable rise in international arrivals. Over 1.3 million international visitors graced Phu Quoc in the first half of 2026, marking a striking 50.3 percent year-on-year increase. This indicates about 65.7 percent of the annual target for international visitors has already been met, reflecting a robust rise in confidence among foreign travelers drawn to Vietnam’s expanding tourism sector.
The significant increase in visitors has translated into outstanding financial outcomes. Tourism revenue surpassed VND 31.5 trillion, nearly USD 1.2 billion, in the first half of 2026 alone—a 46 percent increase compared to the previous year. This revenue accounts for over 80 percent of the total tourism revenue generated in An Giang Province, underscoring tourism’s pivotal role in the island’s economy and regional development.
With sights set on establishing Phu Quoc as a globally recognized destination ahead of APEC 2027, local authorities are treating the upcoming international summit as a prime opportunity to showcase the island’s natural beauty, hospitality, and rich investment potential before global leaders and media.
In an effort to enhance the visitor experience, the island has launched the “Every Phu Quoc Resident is a Tourism Ambassador” campaign. This initiative encourages local communities to actively engage in creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere while promoting responsible tourism practices.
Furthermore, the establishment of a Tourism Rapid Response Team aims to assist travelers, address tourism-related inquiries promptly, and enhance visitor safety. This initiative intends to build confidence amongst international visitors, ensuring a smoother travel experience throughout their stay.
In tandem with improving tourism services, efforts are focused on preserving the island’s cultural identity. Local authorities are actively restoring various historical and cultural heritage sites to maintain a close connection between tourism development and the conservation of the island’s rich local traditions.
Additionally, achieving sustainable tourism and embracing digital transformation are emerging as cornerstones of Phu Quoc’s long-term tourism strategy. Initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impacts are being prioritized, alongside the integration of digital services and technology-driven visitor experiences.
To further elevate tourism quality, a comprehensive tourism code of conduct is being introduced to enhance service delivery and prevent practices such as overcharging, which can detract from visitor satisfaction. By fostering professionalism in the tourism sector, the aim is to solidify Phu Quoc’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for all.
Casting an eye towards the future, Phu Quoc has set ambitious visitor targets for 2026, aiming to attract over 9 million visitors, which includes at least 2 million international tourists. To achieve these goals, continued investment is deemed essential in terms of expanding tourism products, enhancing accommodation standards, and diversifying visitor experiences.
Tourism authorities are diligently working to broaden the array of attractions available while improving service quality across hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Special focus is being directed towards enhancing high-quality tourism human resources, including additional foreign language training to facilitate better communication with international guests.
Safety in marine tourism is also being prioritized, with regulatory enhancements for speedboats and yachts to ensure safe operations as the number of visitors rises.
Preparations for APEC Leaders’ Week 2027 encompass more than just tourism visibility. Through an approved development blueprint from the Prime Minister, An Giang Province is embarking on 21 major infrastructure projects within the Phu Quoc Special Zone, with an estimated investment of VND 137.1 trillion. These projects are expected to significantly enhance transport connectivity, tourism infrastructure, and public services ahead of the international delegates’ arrival.
Looking ahead, Phu Quoc’s remarkable tourism growth and rising international arrivals are positioning Vietnam as one of Asia’s fastest-growing global travel destinations. With substantial investments and extensive infrastructure development already progressing, the island is embracing a new era in its tourism evolution. As it continues its preparations for APEC 2027, Phu Quoc aims to shine as not just Vietnam’s premier island destination, but also as one of Asia’s leading luxury resort and sustainable tourism hotspots, prepared to enchant millions of visitors from around the globe.
Source: The post Vietnam Welcomes Over Five Million Visitors to Phu Quoc as Over One Million International Arrivals and APEC 2027 Preparations Propel the Island Into a Global Travel Powerhouse first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
