| Related Links | The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) has proposed
visa-free entry for ASEAN nationals. This is their direct response to the decline in
tourism. The want to make transit visa available at international border gates and
sea ports. The Institute of Tourism Research and Development claimed 1.8 million arrivals last year, up by 200,000 in 1996. This claim has been disputed by local hoteliers and tour operators. Presently there are complex visa regulations which deter potential visitors. There is also to be a stream-lining of visa processing for visitors from outside ASEAN although no details were given. This year the VNAT expects 1.9 million visitors from North America, Europe and Asia. |