Sri Lanka took a significant step towards expanding its tourism footprint in Southeast Asia with the successful hosting of a tourism promotion event titled “Unlocking Sri Lanka’s Tourism Potential” in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam, on 8 June 2026.
Organised jointly by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Viet Nam and Vietnam Japan Services and Commerce Co., Ltd. (VJSC), the event aimed to position Sri Lanka as a preferred travel destination for Vietnamese tourists while strengthening tourism and economic cooperation between the two countries.
The timing of the initiative is particularly important as VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines prepare to launch direct air connectivity between Ho Chi Minh City and Colombo. VietJet Air is scheduled to commence operations on 18 August 2026, while Vietnam Airlines is expected to introduce direct services later this year, significantly enhancing travel accessibility between the two nations.
The programme commenced with the traditional Sri Lankan oil lamp lighting ceremony, followed by a keynote presentation by Ambassador Poshitha Perera, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Viet Nam. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s unique tourism offerings, rich cultural heritage, biodiversity, wellness experiences, adventure tourism opportunities, and growing appeal among international travellers.
VJSC Director Nguyen Tien Bach introduced specially curated Sri Lanka travel packages tailored for Vietnamese visitors, emphasising customised experiences and emerging opportunities within the Sri Lankan tourism sector.
A key highlight of the event was an engaging talk show featuring Pham Hoang Hung of Vietravel and prominent travel influencer Le Viet Vinh, popularly known as Vinh Gau. The discussion explored travel trends among Vietnamese consumers and the increasing attractiveness of Sri Lanka as a destination for leisure, culture, and adventure.
VietJet Air International Sales Director Nguyen Chi Duc also presented details of the upcoming Ho Chi Minh City–Colombo route and the airline’s expansion plans.
The event attracted over 60 leading travel companies and tourism stakeholders, reflecting growing interest in Sri Lanka. The Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to deepening tourism partnerships, strengthening people-to-people connections, and promoting greater economic collaboration between Sri Lanka and Viet Nam.
