Vietnam Welcomes Its 20-Millionth International Tourist in Phu Quoc with $19,000 Reward

In a landmark year for Vietnam’s tourism industry, the country officially welcomed its 20 millionth international visitor on the afternoon of December 15. The lucky traveler, Ms. Karolina Agnieszka from Poland, chose Phu Quoc Island as her destination and was honored with a special welcome ceremony along with rewards worth VND 500 million.

Vietnam marks a historic milestone as tourism officials and partners attend the official ceremony welcoming the country’s 20-millionth international visitor in Phu Quoc

“Right now, I am truly moved to tears. I feel incredibly lucky to be here and to have the opportunity to visit Vietnam,” Ms. Karolina shared upon arriving at Phu Quoc International Airport after a long journey from Poland. “Your country is truly beautiful. The people are friendly, warm, and open-hearted. I love Vietnam—Xin chào Việt Nam. This is a moment I will cherish for the rest of my life. I will recommend all my friends and family in Poland to visit this wonderful country.”

The official ceremony welcoming Vietnam’s 20 millionth international visitor was jointly organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the People’s Committee of An Giang Province, and local tourism enterprises on December 15.

The event featured a ceremonial reception at the aircraft stairs, flower presentations, traditional art performances, and the announcement and presentation of certificates and commemorative gifts to the lucky travelers.

According to Ho An Phong, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vietnam officially welcomed 20 million international arrivals in 2025, marking a historic milestone—the first time in the 65-year history of Vietnam’s tourism sector.

“This achievement reflects a strong, sustainable, and remarkable recovery of Vietnam’s tourism industry, especially as global tourism continues to rebound after the unprecedented downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr. Phong stated.

An aerial view of Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s leading island destination, showcasing its rapidly developing tourism infrastructure as the island prepares for APEC 2027

He also emphasized the significance of Phu Quoc as the chosen destination:“These international visitors arriving in Phu Quoc carry special meaning. The Pearl Island has invested heavily in airport infrastructure, seaports, and integrated transport systems in preparation for hosting APEC 2027. This presents a major opportunity for breakthrough tourism growth and increased international arrivals.”

As Vietnam’s 20 millionth international visitor, Ms. Karolina received gifts totaling nearly VND 500 million, comprising a premium pearl necklace valued at VND 200 million; round-trip business-class flight ticket from Sun PhuQuoc Airways; a luxury stay at a 5-star resort; Michelin-recommended dining vouchers, golf and yacht excursions exploring southern Phu Quoc; along with priority access cards for entertainment and leisure services within the Sun Group ecosystem.

The 20-millionth international visitor to Vietnam receives a certificate of honor and commemorative gifts during a special welcome ceremony in Phu Quoc

On this occasion, the 19,999,999th visitor, Ms. Milena Katarzyna Ciesielska, and the 20,000,001st visitor, Mr. Karol Krzysztof Ciesielski—both from Poland—also received special gift packages valued at over VND 200 million each, including premium pearls and service vouchers from Sun Group.

Additionally, all passengers on the lucky flight were welcomed with flowers and complimentary tickets to the “Kiss of the Sea” show at Sunset Town, Phu Quoc.

Phu Quoc Transforms Ahead of APEC 2027

In 2025, Phu Quoc is expected to welcome more than 8 million visitors, including over 1.8 million international arrivals. The island currently hosts 311 investment projects with a total capital of approximately VND 428 trillion, led by major brands such as Sun Group and Vingroup, shaping a world-class tourism and resort ecosystem.

APEC 2027 is set to become a powerful catalyst, positioning Phu Quoc as a leading regional and global tourism and service hub. The event will accelerate infrastructure upgrades, international tourism openness, and national brand promotion.

Experts emphasize that Phu Quoc requires a special administrative and economic zone mechanism under central governance, granting commensurate authority, responsibilities, benefits, and open policies for international visitors.

According to the roadmap, APEC 2027 will be held in Phu Quoc, with Vietnam intensifying efforts to upgrade infrastructure and transform the island’s image in preparation for this major global event.

Visit Indochina – Top 10 DMC in Vietnam

Trusted B2B Travel Partner across Thailand, Laos, Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan, India & Indonesia.