KPL
Tourism leaders from six Mekong countries have approved a bold regional plan to revive and modernize travel across Southeast Asia.
(KPL) Tourism leaders from six Mekong countries have approved a bold regional plan to revive and modernize travel across Southeast Asia.
At the 55th Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Tourism Summit, hosted in the historic town of Luang Prabang, on June 24 delegates from Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and China agreed on key initiatives aimed at making travel smoother, smarter, and greener by 2027.
The plan includes three major reforms:
Countries will adopt shared online visa systems, making it easier for tourists to visit multiple destinations with fewer delays and less paperwork.
New ADB-backed projects will support the use of AI in tourism apps and expand eco-friendly infrastructure such as electric transport and smart visitor centers.
A network of biking and hiking trails will connect natural and cultural sites—such as Laos' waterfalls and Cambodia's ancient temples—to promote sustainable, cross-border tourism.
“We’re building a Mekong where travelers swipe rather than queue,” said Phonmaly Inthaphom, Director General of Tourism Marketing for Laos. She highlighted upcoming innovations like drone-delivered luggage and augmented reality temple tours as part of pilot programs.
The summit signals a united effort to position the Mekong region as a top global destination—balancing convenience, culture, and conservation.
KPL
