ASEAN Tourism Bodies Convene in Laos to Chart Growth Strategies
Vientiane – Tourism officials from across the ASEAN bloc assembled in Vientiane, Laos this week to confer on advancing regional travel and cooperation. The 59th gathering of ASEAN National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) was held Tuesday, chaired by Laos’ Director General of Tourism Marketing Khom Douangchantha.
On the agenda were strategies to further implement the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan 2016-2025, which provides a blueprint for maximizing the economic and social potential of tourism across Southeast Asia. Khom emphasized ASEAN’s commitment to unlocking travel’s immense possibilities, stating “Tourism programmes under the Strategic Plan have significantly contributed to the development and expansion of tourism in ASEAN countries.”
Key discussion points included enhancing destination branding and marketing, easing visa policies, improving connectivity and integration, ensuring sustainability, and strengthening crisis preparedness in the wake of disruptions like COVID-19. With travel rebounding, tourism generated $380 billion for the region pre-pandemic while supporting millions of livelihoods. ASEAN aims to build resilience, foster cross-border travel, improve competitiveness and draw international arrivals back to surpass past milestones.
Officials also exchanged insights on tapping tourism to accelerate post-pandemic recovery and equitable growth as economies reopen. With cooperation and innovation, Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures and landscapes stand ready to welcome travellers seeking community-centric, sustainable experiences. As Khom added, “We will continue working to realize tourism’s full potential across the ASEAN Community.”
