Call for increased state budget for tourism

The Viet Nam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) has asked the Ministry of Finance for an increase in the State budget to meet increased demand for tourism.
According to a recent VNAT report, over 4.3 million foreign tourists visited the country during the first eight months, a 10 per cent increase over the same period last year, while the number of domestic travellers reached 23.2 million, an increase of seven per cent compared to the same period last year.
Deputy director of VNAT Hoang Thi Diep said tourism needs more money for promoting brand names, products and sites.
She said that last year VND35 billion (US$1.6 million) was spent on tourism promotion. However, this year the amount was only VND30 billion.
"Due to the current fierce competition, tourism promotion is really crucial," said Diep "However, the lack of State funds is preventing tourism from developing."
This year, tourism has earned VND98 trillion ($4.6 billion) so far, a 15 per cent increase compared against the same period last year..