Lao Bao Town drives economic growth in Huong Hoa through tourism

To boost tourism and facilitate cross-border trade, Le Ba Hung, Chairman of Lao Bao Town People’s Committee, urged authorities to streamline procedures for easier travel and trade between the two borders.

He proposed using simplified border pass cards instead of passports to simplify movement within the border areas. Hung also recommended that authorities facilitate the export of agricultural products produced by border residents.

He said it is needed to continue investment in infrastructure, including Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street, Lao Bao Park, and the Lao Bao Border Market, to promote local goods and attract tourists to the region.

He also urged agencies to support Vietnamese tourists traveling to Ban Dong Museum and the Densavan border trade area, as well as seek higher-level support to enhance the Lao Bao-Densavan cross-border economic zone.

Increased trade boosts tourism in Lao Bao

In recent years, investment projects in Laos (Se Pon District, Savannakhet Province) have led to a surge in goods and transportation between Danang Port and Laos. This uptick has significantly increased tourist arrivals in Lao Bao.

During 2023 and 2024, Lao Bao Town hosted three-night pedestrian street events on Nguyen Hue Street, creating vibrant spaces for cultural exchange, dining, and nighttime shopping. These events attracted over 35,000 visitors from both within the town and neighboring areas, generating an estimated revenue of VND3.5 billion (US$137,662) for street vendors.

Notably, snake mascots displayed at Lao Bao Park during the 2025 Lunar New Year attracted over 55,000 visitors for photos and to enjoy specialties from Vietnam and Laos.

Starting December 2024, the Lao Bao Town People’s Committee has organized weekly border markets every Saturday at the Lao Bao Trade Center. The market features nearly 50 booths from localities in Huong Hoa District and neighboring Laos, divided into various sections including food and beverage, displays of products from the Van Kieu and Pa Ko ethnic groups, vendor stalls, and cultural performances. This initiative promotes trade between residents on both sides of the border while allowing visitors to Huong Hoa District to experience local culture and specialties.