The 20th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC 2026) opened on August 27, 2026, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The event runs for three days through August 29 under the theme “Vibrant Connections – Global Destinations.” It aims to connect partners and improve cooperation quality within the travel sector.
Global Participation and Exhibitor Profile
More than 520 exhibitors and over 260 international buyers from more than 40 countries and territories are participating in ITE HCMC 2026. Participating countries include the Republic of Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Bhutan, Russia’s St. Petersburg, and
Nicaragua. The event features one of its largest and most varied tourism networks to date.
Business-to-Business Programme Details
The expo features an extensive international buyers programme with over 21,000 business-to-business appointments scheduled. These meetings assist exhibitors and buyers in introducing products, seeking partnerships, and expanding market reach across the global tourism industry represented at the event.
Vietnamese Participants and Notable Booths
A total of 34 Vietnamese provinces and cities participate alongside major businesses from travel, accommodation, aviation, transport, and tourism technology sectors. Vietnam Airlines, the national flag carrier, presents alongside tourism operators from Da Nang, Hoi An, Mui Ne, and Phu Quoc. The Vietnamese Embassy in Canada actively
supports Vietnam’s booth, which showcases domestic tour operators and tourism products.
Official Statements on the Expo’s Significance
Nguyen Loc Ha, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, stated the expo’s 20th anniversary opens a new development stage focusing on quality and partnership value. Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ho An Phong said the event has evolved from a traditional trade promotion to an international travel expo and an annual industry meeting.
Public Activities and Emerging Tourism Trends
ITE HCMC 2026 is open to the public from August 27 to August 29. Visitors can engage in tourism, cultural, and culinary experiences, along with OCOP product exhibitions, promotional events,
and art performances. The event spotlights emerging trends such as green and digital tourism, waterway and metro tourism, MICE, medical tourism, and cultural and rural experiences.
Industry Context and Strategic Positioning
The expo functions as Asia-Pacific’s key forum for tourism cooperation, policy dialogue, and knowledge sharing. It supports stronger links between tourism management agencies, businesses, airlines, and service providers to position Ho Chi Minh City and other Vietnamese destinations competitively in the global market. Vietnam’s tourism sector is actively restructuring to develop year-round tourism products focused on authentic, locally-rooted experiences.
Among featured accommodations, the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort, developed by Sun Group
on Kem Beach in southern Phu Quoc, is highlighted as a premier resort. Phu Quoc is recognized for offering high-end resort options at accessible prices, contributing to the country’s growing tourism appeal.
