Tourism and exports drive Hue’s economic growth in first 8 months

During the first eight months of 2026, the economy of Hue city in central Vietnam continued to record positive signals as tourism experienced robust growth, while industrial production and exports maintained their upward momentum.

At the August regular meeting organized by the City People’s Committee on August 26 to evaluate the socio-economic situation, the City Department of Finance reported that the city welcomed an estimated 5.82 million visitors during the eight-month period, a 26.4% increase over the same period last year. Of this total, international arrivals reached nearly 1.76 million, surging by 35.1%. Tourism revenue is estimated at VND13.79 trillion ($528.5 million), an impressive increase of approximately 60%.

Commercial activities also sustained their growth trajectory. Total retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue reached an estimated VND50.955 trillion ($1.95 billion), up 18.9%. Export turnover hit approximately $1.15 billion, representing a 16.8% year-on-year increase.

Industrial production continues to play a vital role in economic growth. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for the first eight months is estimated to have risen by 10.3%, with the processing and manufacturing sector specifically growing by 14.3%.

Total realized investment capital in the area during the period reached an estimated VND25.478 billion (over $977,000), a 15.1% increase compared to the same period last year. This indicates continued expansion within the investment and corporate sectors.

Alongside these positive results, Hue City still faces several challenges, most notably the progress of public investment disbursement.

According to Mr. La Phuc Thanh, Director of the City Department of Finance, the city has successfully resolved difficulties and obstacles for 168 out of 177 projects, achieving a rate of 95%. This includes 59 non-budget projects and 109 public investment projects.

However, as of August 21, the city had only disbursed more than VND2,351 trillion ($90 million), equivalent to just 37.6% of the total  annual capital plan assigned by the Prime Minister.