The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) said recent violations included organising illegal overseas travel disguised as tourism, operating unlicensed tourism services, publishing misleading advertisements, and impersonating travel companies and accommodation providers online to defraud customers
The agency said such offences were becoming more frequent and sophisticated during the summer holiday period, posing risks to public security, tourists and legitimate businesses while undermining Vietnam's tourism industry.
VNAT has instructed provincial tourism authorities to step up inspections of travel agencies, accommodation providers and other tourism businesses to ensure compliance with tourism regulations.
Local authorities were also told to identify organisations and individuals suspected of using tourism activities to facilitate illegal overseas travel, illegal labour recruitment, tourist scams or other offences, and coordinate with police and other agencies.
VNAT also called for stronger public awareness campaigns on fraudulent websites and social media accounts impersonating tourism businesses, urging travellers to book and pay only through official channels.
Travel companies were reminded to comply with tourism, immigration and consumer protection laws and warned against organising or facilitating illegal migration or other unlawful activities.
The authority also told operators to provide accurate information, avoid misleading advertising, and ensure that timeshares and similar tourism products comply with the law.
