Speaking at the seminar, Minister Hoang Tuan Anh said that the central coastal region plays the key role in realising the target of attracting foreign and domestic tourist arrivals in 2015. This is expected to bring a tourism income of USD 8-9 billion, accounting for 5.5 percent of national GDP.

Until 2020, the local tourism sector strives to greet 10-15 million foreign tourists and 40-45 million domestic arrivals, with a tourism turnover of USD 17-18 billion, making up 6-6.5 percent of national GDP, added the minister.

The minister also affirmed travel businesses in the central coastal region should attach importance in developing tourist products specific to each locality. Moreover, localities should coordinate together for mutual development and avoid unhealthy competition among localities and businesses in attracting tourists.

Source: BNA