The 20th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC 2026) commenced on August 27, 2026, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC). Running through August 29, the event brings together over 520 exhibitors and 260 international buyers representing more than 40 countries and territories.
Participation of Vietnamese and International Entities
Thirty-four Vietnamese provinces and cities participate along with businesses from travel, accommodation, aviation, transport, and tourism technology sectors. Foreign participants include tourism agencies and companies from the Republic of Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Bhutan, Russia’s St. Petersburg, and Nicaragua. The Vietnamese Embassy in Canada is also present, promoting Vietnam as a
travel destination.
International Buyers Programme and Business Appointments
ITE HCMC 2026 hosts an international buyers programme involving more than 260 buyers from over 40 countries. It has scheduled upwards of 21,000 business-to-business appointments, offering opportunities to present products, seek partnerships, and explore market expansion within Vietnam and internationally.
Emerging Tourism Trends Highlighted at the Expo
The expo spotlights key tourism developments, covering green and digital tourism, waterway and metro tourism, MICE, medical tourism, alongside cultural and rural tourism experiences. National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines and travel businesses from Da Nang, Hoi An, Mui Ne, and Phu Quoc showcase their offerings as part of the event’s broad promotion of diverse tourism sectors.
Official Statements on Event Significance
Nguyen Loc
Ha, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, emphasized the 20th anniversary as a new development stage aiming to enhance the quality of connections and cooperation among partners. Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ho An Phong noted the expo’s evolution from a trade promotion event to an international travel expo and annual industry meeting. Deputy Prime Minister Pham Thi Thanh Tra underscored tourism’s role as a spearhead economic sector and the strategic importance of MICE tourism.
Public Access and Cultural Activities
The expo is open to the public starting the afternoon of August 27 through August 29, 2026. Visitors can
experience tourism displays, cultural and culinary events, OCOP products, promotional programmes, and art performances. This public access coincides with Vietnam’s National Day holiday from August 29 to September 2, offering domestic and international travel opportunities.
Vietnamese Destinations in Global Tourism Context
Vietnamese localities use ITE HCMC 2026 to position themselves in the global tourism market, enhancing partnerships and investment opportunities. Destinations like Phu Quoc gain recognition for affordable luxury experiences, with the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort, developed by Sun Group on Kem Beach, featured prominently. The event fosters connectivity and cooperation in tourism, trade, investment, and culture between Vietnamese localities and international partners.
