Vietnam is making significant strides in positioning itself as a premier global golf destination through a strategic partnership with 54 and the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), alongside the Department of Physical Training and Sports. This collaboration aims to tap into the nation’s exceptional potential and elevate its status on the international golf map.

The joint initiative includes the establishment of Vietnam’s first golf course star-rating system, designed to enhance standards across the industry. Additionally, the two entities are set to host the World Golf Summit in 2025, a pivotal event for the country, and develop targeted strategies to attract global sporting events and investments. These efforts are focused on driving innovation and supporting sustainable growth within Vietnam’s burgeoning golf tourism sector.

A key milestone in this partnership was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the parties, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the development of golf tourism in Vietnam. This MoU also aligns with the government’s broader strategic goals for tourism, placing an emphasis on this high-potential segment.

This announcement comes shortly after 54’s partnership with the Phu Long Company to embark on the development of premium golf courses in Vietnam, further underlining the commitment to elevating the country’s golf infrastructure.

Nguyen Trung Khanh, Director General of VNAT, highlighted Vietnam’s rapid tourism recovery, with projections for 2024 indicating the sector will fully bounce back to pre-pandemic levels. The nation is expected to welcome 17-18 million international visitors and host around 110 million domestic travelers, meeting set targets and reaffirming tourism’s key role in Vietnam’s socio-economic recovery.

Vietnam’s stunning geography, which includes a rich cultural heritage and a diverse landscape along its breathtaking coastline, presents ideal conditions for developing golf tourism. These natural advantages also lay the groundwork for integrating entertainment and leisure complexes, making the country an even more appealing destination for golf enthusiasts.

Vietnam’s growing reputation in the global golf scene is evident, with the nation receiving prestigious awards such as “Asia’s Best Golf Destination” for eight consecutive years and “World’s Best Golf Destination” twice at the World Golf Awards.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (MOCST) has tasked its specialized units with creating and executing a comprehensive plan to boost golf tourism. The objective is clear: to position Vietnam as a leading destination for golf tourism, combining its natural beauty, cultural appeal, and top-tier infrastructure to foster sustainable growth in this promising sector.

Jed Moore, 54, Group CEO, said: “Vietnam is perfectly poised to take some major steps in elevating its commitment to major sports partnerships and has already seen early successes with positive trends in its golf tourism sector. 

“With global interests showing no sign of slowing and a growing commitment to establishing a national golf strategy, service standards will increase, advancements in the product diversity and experiences will accelerate and the sector will become a shining light for how other sports might look to structure their approach to building diverse new economies.”

During the ceremony, the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), the Sports Administration of Vietnam (SAV), and 54 Vietnam Co., Ltd. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at advancing golf tourism in Vietnam.

Under the terms of the MOU, VNAT will take the lead in collaboration with SAV, 54 Vietnam Co., Ltd., and Thua Thien Hue Province to organize the prestigious World Golf Summit in 2025, which will be held in Thua Thien Hue as part of the National Tourism Year celebrations. The agreement also includes the development of a comprehensive star-rating system for golf courses in Vietnam, designed to enhance the quality and appeal of the country’s golf offerings. In addition, the partners will work together to devise strategies and initiatives that will attract resources and secure international sporting events, further boosting Vietnam’s profile as a premier destination for golf tourism.