Vietnam's tourism hot spot becomes foreign investment hub

TOKYO -- With its emerald green ocean and moss-covered islets, the world heritage site of Halong Bay in northern Vietnam is one of the country's most popular destinations, attracting tourists from around the world. In 2023, it welcomed about 2.6 million foreign visitors, accounting for 21% of Vietnam's total inbound tourists.

However, the province where Halong Bay is located has another face. Quang Ninh has recently become Vietnam's largest recipient of foreign direct investment, overtaking Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other economic hot spots, thanks to global supply chain diversification and a new port in a nearby city.