HANOI — Vietnam’s business events sector is entering a period of significant expansion, supported by government reforms, rising domestic demand and a wave of investment in large-scale event infrastructure.
Industry leaders speaking at the 2026 Exhibition, Event and Advertising Summit in Hanoi pointed to a combination of economic growth, policy support and venue development that is strengthening the country’s ability to attract larger exhibitions, conventions and live events. According to figures presented at the summit, Vietnam’s MICE sector is currently valued at approximately US$6 billion.
Recent policy changes have signalled stronger government backing for cultural and event-related industries. Earlier this year, Vietnam’s Politburo issued Resolution No. 80, which targets the cultural industries, aiming to contribute 7% of GDP by 2030 and 9% by 2045. The National Assembly has also introduced measures to reduce barriers to cultural, exhibition, and performance activities, including tax incentives, investment support, and increased public funding for cultural development.
Economic growth is also contributing to demand. Speaking at the summit, Cấn Văn Lực, Chief Economist at the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam, described the current environment as a “golden opportunity” for Vietnam’s cultural industries. Vietnam’s per capita income has surpassed US$5,000 and is projected to reach US$8,500 by 2030, supporting growth in entertainment, sports and live experiences.
Alongside policy reforms, major venue developments are reshaping Vietnam’s event landscape. Vingroup’s 900,000-square-meter Vietnam Exposition Center is expected to become one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated exhibition complexes. Additional projects include the VEC Can Gio development in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring the proposed 60,000-capacity Blue Wave Theater, as well as new stadium developments designed to support large-scale events.
Speaking at the summit, Geoff Dickinson, CEO of dmg events, expressed that destinations seeking to attract major international gatherings must invest deliberately in infrastructure and long-term planning. As new facilities come online and regulatory reforms take effect, Vietnam is positioning itself to compete more directly for large regional exhibitions, international congresses, and large-scale live events.
