On July 8, the Lao Cai Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism organized a conference in Sa Pa to discuss solutions for developing tourism in 2026. The event gathered around 250 participants, including experts, local leaders, and representatives from tourism associations and businesses.

During the opening remarks, Nông Việt Yên, the Director of the Lao Cai Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, highlighted the challenges facing the tourism sector despite some achievements. Many businesses are still encountering obstacles related to investment, land acquisition, administrative procedures, infrastructure, and human resources. These issues need to be addressed through open discussions and collaborative solutions.

The conference included analyses of the limitations and challenges within Lao Cai's tourism sector from the perspectives of experts and business operators. Attendees engaged in discussions to identify new growth drivers for tourism, focusing on supportive policies, smart tourism, and land management.

Đào Đức Long, Vice Chairman of the Lao Cai Tourism Association, emphasized that the region's tourism growth heavily relies on a single product model centered around the landscape and heritage of Sa Pa. While this is a significant advantage, it also makes the sector vulnerable to fluctuations in weather and market demand.

To enhance management efficiency, attract investment, and develop competitive tourism products, Long suggested diversifying growth drivers across different customer segments and seasons. The wellness belt encompassing Văn Yên, Nghĩa Lộ, Tú Lệ, and Mù Cang Chải is identified as a potential second growth driver, leveraging natural hot springs and local medicinal resources.

Furthermore, Vũ Xuân Nguyên, Chairman of IGB Group, introduced a smart tourism software platform, Lao Cai Tour, designed to modernize tourism development while preserving and promoting ethnic heritage. This platform aims to improve marketing and trade promotion for the tourism sector, helping visitors easily navigate dining, accommodation, and entertainment options.

Local authorities also provided direct support to clarify administrative procedures and land-related issues affecting tourism businesses. Nông Việt Yên called for collaboration among various agencies to address these challenges promptly, facilitating the implementation of qualified projects to boost tourism as a vital economic sector for Lao Cai.

During the conference, a memorandum of understanding was signed between IGB Group, the Lao Cai Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and the Lao Cai Tourism Association to develop the smart tourism software. Additionally, the opening ceremony for the Lao Cai Tourism Association office in Sa Pa was held.