Myanmar, blessed with natural beauty and both tangible and intangible cultural treasures, boasts a rich tapestry of uncovered ancient cultural heritages and UNESCO-recognized world heritage sites. These attractions draw in both local and international travellers.
In 2023, Myanmar welcomed 1.28 million foreign visitors, a significant increase from the 230,000 recorded in 2022. This trend continued in the first five months of 2024, with 520,000 foreign tourists visiting Myanmar, marking a 63% increase compared to the same period the previous year.
Despite these encouraging numbers, Myanmar still lags behind its eastern neighbours in terms of tourist arrivals. The tourism sector in Myanmar must, therefore, maintain its momentum and continue to work diligently to attract even more visitors. Local authorities are prioritizing the improvement of tourism services and addressing the challenges faced by travellers on their journeys.
Hence, it is necessary to effectively resurge Myanmar’s tourism sector in 2024, similar to neighbouring countries, under the leadership of the National Tourism Development Central Committee. The initiatives to develop the tourism industry in Myanmar will contribute to the development of the socioeconomic life of the people as well as give the chance to show off the remarkable cultural heritage of the country to the world.
A press release from the UN Tourism Board highlighted that 1.3 billion tourists travelled globally in 2023, generating $1.5 trillion in revenue for the tourism sector. The report also projected a positive outlook for the tourism industry in 2024, anticipating a recovery to pre-COVID-19 levels due to the easing of travel restrictions, improved aviation services, and streamlined visa processes.
To capitalize on this potential, Myanmar’s tourism authorities must collaborate with local communities to find effective market promotion strategies, implement digital payment systems, relax restrictions on tourism services and related businesses, and offer domestic and health-conscious food options to travellers.
Currently, the Myanmar government is upgrading the Kengtung, Tachilek, and Pathein airports to provide better aviation services for both domestic and international travellers. These upgrades aim to facilitate the landing of more international flights, thereby increasing the number of foreign tourists. Private tourism agencies are also working hard to attract international visitors, and efforts are underway to streamline the visa process for travellers from key tourism markets.
By focusing on these initiatives, Myanmar can enhance its tourism infrastructure and services, making it an even more appealing destination for travellers worldwide. That will not only boost the local economy but also help preserve and showcase Myanmar’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
Hence, it is necessary to effectively resurge Myanmar’s tourism sector in 2024, similar to neighbouring countries, under the leadership of the National Tourism Development Central Committee. The initiatives to develop the tourism industry in Myanmar will contribute to the development of the socioeconomic life of the people as well as give the chance to show off the remarkable cultural heritage of the country to the world.
