GMS countries gathered to exchange what is working, what remains challenging, and what must improve. This spirit of reflection framed the GMS International Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development, co-organized by the Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) and the Swiss, with support from SECO. Held on 18 November in Ninh Binh, the event brought together over 100 delegates, experts, and partners from across the subregion.

Discussions focused on the systems the GMS must strengthen: credible sustainability standards, deeper community ownership, regenerative approaches that restore ecosystems, and the application of technology and data for better planning. Swiss experts highlighted global trends such as carbon-aware travel, growing expectations for transparency and certification, and the shift from “less harm” toward net-positive impact.

Famiy picture at the GMS Congress

Country representatives contributed grounded insights ”from Cambodias community and cultural tourism initiatives and Lao PDRs lessons in equitable benefit-sharing, to Thailands destination management and Viet Nams Green Tourism Program.