Novaland – BCG partnership to unlock full potential of Mekong Delta Tourism Sector

The Mekong Delta is one of the best-known regions of Vietnam with global recognition as a site for agriculture, tourism, and diverse culture. This area is considered as an ideal destination for ecotourism, resort tourism or exploring tourism... Although much progress has been made on its development, the full potential of Mekong Delta region have not been exploited.

“At its best, the Mekong can be a tourism gem for Vietnam, measured alongside some of the world’s great river-based tourism destinations such as the Nile Delta in Egypt which creates millions of jobs for that economy, and provides income to preserve their natural and cultural heritage,” Christopher Lewis Malone – Global Head of Economic Development for BCG said. 

“On the other hand, if not managed correctly, the Mekong Delta can quickly become a security issue for Vietnam due to environmental degradation and loss of livelihood for local communities. The time has come for an immediate intervention that sets the Delta on a new development trajectory,” he added.

Development of Mekong Delta Tourism Sector will be one of the most significant strategies to adapt to climate change. BCG estimates that up to 300,000 additional jobs could be created within the tourism sector by 2025, providing critical diversification for the economy and a sustainable livelihood for those living in the Delta.

An essential part of the development will be using global standards and best practices for sustainability, thereby preserving and nurturing the key cultural assets in the Delta such as the floating markets, the riverside communities and way of life.

With the development of the sector as whole, there is also expected to be significant stimulus of small and medium enterprises that make up the vast majority of businesses in the Delta.

In addition, the initiative will focus on education and training program in order to bring the services quality to international standards and to raise awareness of environmental protection.

Bui Thanh Nhon – Chairman of Novaland Group, said: "By connecting initiatives and specific projects, we are willing to contribute to sustainable development of Mekong Delta. We believe when the project is completed, Mekong Delta will be the destination for the whole country, the region and the world, which helps change the picture of Mekong Delta tourism."

“With specific and strategic directions, BCG's advanced and integrated consultancy on Development of Mekong Delta Tourism Sector will demonstrate a viable and sustainable market, thereby attracting more partners including Vietnamese investors, international investors, development partners and non-governmental organizations – they are the important factors to raise the region up to the next level of sustainable development." 

"This comprehensive tourism development plan will ensure that investments will be used to promote regional economic development and support local people in long-term," Nhon emphasized.