To date, Vietnam has hosted APEC twice, in 2006 and 2017, and each time brought its own unique mark.
In 2006, Hanoi, with its calm yet determined demeanor, welcomed the leaders of 21 APEC member economies. This was the first time Vietnam took the host position for a top-tier international event. Not only was it an opportunity for the world to better understand a rapidly transforming Vietnam, but APEC 2006 also opened up a series of new cooperation opportunities, laying the foundation for subsequent broad-based growth.
Eleven years later, Vietnam once again made the world mention its name by becoming the host of APEC 2017, with the beautiful coastal city of Da Nang chosen as the venue. The APEC 2017 Summit was successfully held at the world-class luxury resort InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, leaving a positive impression on heads of state and international media alike.
Phu Quoc kicks off a series of projects to serve APEC 2027 (Source: Vnexpress)
The high-level meetings, economic cooperation agreements, and Vietnam's meticulous preparation for APEC events have demonstrated the admirable organizational capacity of a developing economy that is strongly emerging onto the world stage.
Vision 2027: Phu Quoc and its Strategic Transformation
If Hanoi was once the meeting point for important diplomatic handshakes, and Da Nang shone as a symbol of modernity and class, then the near future calls for Phu Quoc, the picturesque Emerald Island, a new center for strategic transformation.
2027 is considered a significant milestone for Phu Quoc. Beyond being a tourist destination, it is expected to become Vietnam's "experience capital" in the Asia-Pacific region. The clear blue beaches, pristine coral reefs, and warm tropical climate year-round form an ideal natural foundation for high-end resort tourism. Luxurious resort systems, world-class entertainment and shopping complexes, and well-invested utility chains are gradually transforming Phu Quoc into an international-class leisure destination.
Not stopping at resorts, Phu Quoc is also oriented to become Vietnam's leading MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) center. 5-6 star hotels with large conference spaces, beachfront event halls filled with natural light, and high-class service systems have made Phu Quoc an ideal choice for forums, press conferences, and large-scale corporate events. Notably, Phu Quoc Airport is being studied for upgrades and expansion with more international routes, bringing the Emerald Island closer to major economic and tourist centers worldwide.
The most noteworthy highlight is the Phu Quoc Airport upgrade plan. This project is considered a "strategic key" to help the Emerald Island break through in international connectivity. Expanding the terminal, increasing the number of check-in counters, building additional VVIP areas to serve heads of state, and planning to expand the aircraft apron to accommodate more long-haul international flights... all aim to meet the standards for serving high-level delegations and the surge in visitors during major events. Once the airport is upgraded, Phu Quoc will not only be more convenient for ordinary tourists but also become a standard-compliant destination for hosting key diplomatic events.
Phu Quoc Airport is invested in and upgraded to serve APEC 2027
The image of Phu Quoc in 2027 is projected by many experts to be a harmonious blend between the most beautiful natural scenery of Vietnam and modern international-standard constructions. This will be a place where tourists can find luxury and peace, businesses can find opportunities and inspiration, and Vietnam can find a new symbol representing breakthrough development.
All these factors, from the natural foundation, modern infrastructure to strategic vision, are together creating a Phu Quoc full of expectations, where Vietnam continues to write its journey of integration and affirm its position on the regional and global map.
