Two decades after its modest debut, the International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC) is preparing to celebrate a landmark milestone.
Taking place from 27th to 29th August at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), the 20th anniversary edition unfolds under the theme Vibrant Connections – Global Destinations.
This theme emphasises Vietnam’s ongoing transition from an emergent Southeast Asian destination into a premier continental hub.
More space for greater impact
Spanning 9,000 square metres, this year’s exhibition represents the largest scale in the event’s history.
Over 520 global exhibitors and brands will gather alongside representatives from 34 Vietnamese provinces and more than 40 international countries.
The trade show is set to host 260 high-level buyers from core markets across Northeast Asia, Western Europe, North America, and Australia, facilitating an estimated 21,000 pre-scheduled B2B meetings, marking an eightfold increase since the expo’s inception in 2005.
Over 30,000 trade professionals and public visitors are expected to stream through the doors over the course of the three-day event.
Four vital touchpoints
This milestone iteration addresses a rapidly evolving global market by focusing on four strategic pillars:
- Greener ecosystems Blending artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and travel tech with heritage preservation to foster sustainable travel models.
- HCMC’s MICE boom Highlighting Ho Chi Minh City’s expanding infrastructure and capacity to host large-scale corporate conferences and events.
- Medical tourism Promoting Vietnam’s competitive edge in wellness and medical travel offerings.
- Regional unity within the Mekong Region Strengthening cross-border links, bolstered by initiatives such as Cambodia’s Two Destinations, One Journey subregional packages.
Breaking away from conventional trade-only formats, ITE HCMC 2026 introduces a hybrid structure featuring 2D virtual booths, 3D showcases, and digital matching tools for international partners participating remotely.
For the first time, the general public gains access across all three days, unlocking exclusive consumer travel discounts, interactive culinary workshops, and cultural displays.
The festivities will extend beyond the convention hall with city-wide activations, including the official Vietnam Night gala which will be staged tonight, 6th August, and cultural showcases along Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
