Mekong Tourism Forum 2025

Mekong Tourism Forum 2025 to Convene in Luang Prabang: A Regional Call for Collaborative Tourism Growth

Luang Prabang, Lao PDR – April 2025 — The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of Lao PDR (MICT), in collaboration with the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), is pleased to announce that the Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) 2025 will take place on June 25–27, 2025, in Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city.

Held under the theme “United Journey – Stronger Together,” the forum will bring together tourism leaders, professionals, development partners, and private sector representatives from across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) to explore shared solutions and new approaches to sustainable tourism development. Through open dialogue, immersive sessions, and cross-sectoral exchange, the forum aims to strengthen regional cooperation and amplify community-focused, responsible tourism across borders.

“The Mekong Tourism Forum 2025 reflects our region’s commitment to shaping tourism as a driver of shared prosperity,” said Ms. Phonemaly Inthaphome, Director General of the Tourism Development Department at the MICT. “By convening diverse voices from across the GMS, we aim to build a common platform for dialogue and partnership—ensuring tourism development that is responsible, balanced, and beneficial to all.”

Ms. Suvimol Thanasarakij, Executive Director of the MTCO, added: “This year’s forum will highlight how collaboration—across borders, sectors, and communities—can shape a more resilient and inclusive future for Mekong tourism. We look forward to welcoming all stakeholders to be part of this important conversation.”

MTF 2025 will feature discussions led by industry experts from across the tourism sector, thematic breakout sessions held at carefully selected off-site locations aligned with each theme, and the official launch of the GMS Tourism Strategy 2030. Delegates will also join thematic technical tours designed around hands-on, local experiences—such as mulberry paper making, ecotourism visits, and learning traditional practices alongside local communities—offering an authentic perspective on Luang Prabang’s cultural and natural richness.