Ecotourism is a growing global trend, contributing to environmental protection and sustainable economic development. Master's Lê Minh Tuấn, a lecturer in the International Economics and Business Faculty at VNU University of Economics and Business, and his team have conducted in-depth research on "Policies for Developing Ecotourism Linked to Medicinal Plants: International Experience and Implications for Vietnam." This research offers a novel approach to sustainably harnessing Vietnam's valuable natural resources while preserving biodiversity.

This research was presented as a key paper at a UEB-organized scientific seminar on "Policies to Promote the Carbon Credit Market and Sustainable Development in Vietnam." This prestigious forum brought together leading experts and researchers to discuss solutions for sustainable economic development, including ecotourism and conservation.

Ecotourism, built on the principles of preserving natural environments and local cultures, is flourishing globally. The market is projected to reach $836.13 billion by 2030. Integrating ecotourism with medicinal plant products offers a particularly promising path to sustainable development. Countries like China and Thailand have successfully demonstrated the economic, cultural, and health benefits of models linking tourism with traditional medicine.

Vietnam, with its abundant natural resources and over 5,100 medicinal plant species (200 with high economic value), has immense potential for this type of tourism. However, the research team stresses the need for strategic planning to avoid haphazard development. The experiences of other countries offer valuable lessons.

The research highlights China's integration of ecotourism and traditional medicine into its rural economic development strategy. The Chinese government has invested in traditional medicine eco-parks in regions like Guizhou and Yunnan, leveraging their rich medicinal resources and unique cultures. These parks offer tourists health experiences like acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal baths. Guizhou's successful branding around over 700 local herbs attracts millions of visitors annually and provides sustainable livelihoods for local communities. China's success stems from the strong collaboration between scientific research and supportive policies, with traditional medicine research institutes working closely with tourism businesses to create innovative products and services, ranging from healthcare services to herbal teas, sachets, and natural cosmetics. Master's Tuấn suggests this collaborative model as a key area for Vietnam to learn from, improving product and service quality to meet growing demand.

Thailand, a leading medical tourism destination in Asia, also successfully integrates medicinal plants into its ecotourism offerings. Strong government support has facilitated the development of "herbal cities" and hundreds of products derived from traditional herbs. Spa treatments using herbs like turmeric, ginger, and lemongrass are incorporated into high-end tourism packages, generating significant economic value and strengthening Thailand's national brand.

Based on these examples, Master's Tuấn and his team recommend that Vietnam focus on developing ecotourism products leveraging local strengths. Areas like Sapa, Quang Ninh, and the Central Highlands, with their unique medicinal plant resources and natural beauty, could become specialized tourism centers. Potential offerings could include Dao ethnic medicinal baths, exploring herbal gardens combined with traditional therapies, and culturally immersive experiences.

However, a significant challenge for Vietnam is the lack of coordination among stakeholders. Tourism businesses, researchers, and local governments need stronger collaboration to create a complete value chain. Building a globally competitive medicinal tourism brand requires adherence to international standards. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the critical role of human resources. Training guides and healthcare technicians who understand medicinal plants and local cultures is vital for high-quality service. Investment in training programs in key regions, combining theory and practice, is essential.

With a well-defined strategy, Vietnam can establish a unique and sustainable medicinal plant ecotourism sector, enhancing its position on the global tourism map. The research presented at the UEB seminar provides valuable insights and policy recommendations for sustainable economic growth in Vietnam. The VNU University of Economics and Business, with its experienced faculty and researchers, plays a key role in conducting impactful research, providing policy advice, and hosting national and international forums to address critical societal issues. This commitment underscores the university’s leadership in Vietnam’s sustainable economic development.