Le Hong Loi, Chairman of the Phu Quy Special Zone People's Committee, said on November 9 that the island was implementing a community-based tourism development plan for the 2026-2030 period.
Between 2026 and 2029, Phu Quy aims to establish at least one community tourism site equipped with a communal activity centre and a traditional cultural performance group or club operating regularly.
Under the plan, all members of community tourism teams will receive professional training and certification.
At least 30 per cent of community tourism service providers are expected to receive management training, while 70 per cent of tourism workers will undergo skills development, with women accounting for at least half of those trained.
Each community tourism site is also expected to have at least one person able to communicate in a foreign language.
The island aims to establish at least one community tourism network linking local resources, agriculture and fisheries, food processing, visitor experiences, accommodation, dining, shopping and local products.
Traditional craft villages and One Commune One Product (OCOP) products will also be incorporated into tourism activities.
Phu Quy is seeking national recognition for at least one community tourism site under Vietnam's TCVN 13259:2020 standard, alongside greater use of information technology in tourism services.
By 2030, the island aims to train 80 per cent of community tourism business owners in tourism management and at least 70 per cent of tourism workers in professional skills.
All selected community tourism sites meeting national standards are expected to receive promotional support.
The island also plans to expand digital tourism services, develop a tourism database and standardise digital maps of community tourism attractions.
Located about 56 nautical miles southeast of Phan Thiet Port, Phu Quy Special Zone was established through the merger of Long Hai, Ngu Phung and Tam Thanh communes, with its administrative centre in Ngu Phung.
Covering 18 square kilometres and home to around 32,000 people, the island has significant potential in marine tourism and fisheries.
Phu Quy is one of Vietnam's 12 national marine conservation areas, recognised for its biodiversity and rare marine species.
The island is known for its clear waters, white sandy beaches and rocky coastal landscapes, particularly at Ganh Hang, Lach Xanh and Trieu Duong Bay.
Its rolling hills also provide opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
Phu Quy has 25 religious, spiritual and historical sites, including Princess Ban Tranh Temple, Linh Quang Pagoda and An Thanh Whale Temple, all recognised as national cultural relics.
Marine tourism has expanded in recent years, with activities including island excursions, coral diving, fishing, stand-up paddleboarding and parasailing attracting growing numbers of visitors.
Between 2021 and 2025, Phu Quy welcomed 635,899 visitors, recording average annual growth of 40 per cent.
Tourism revenue over the period reached VND 1.589 trillion (approximately USD 61 million).