Development of Tourism in the Greater Mekong Subregion
Tourism is recognized as one of the fastest growing industries in the world. Over the next decade, it is expected to present major opportunities and major challenges for countries of Asia and the Pacific. In particular, the Greater Mekong subregion (GMS) - comprising Cambodia, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and Yunnan Province of China- has great potential to attract visitors from around the world. With a trend now firmly established towards the liberalization of policy on tourism issues, the prospects for building up tourism into an important economic activity throughout the subregion have brightened considerably.
Tourism already contributes substantially to foreign exchange earnings, employment and government revenue; and direct, indirect and induced income in a number of countries in the region. It has also been found to help reduce regional economic disparities within countries, since areas suitable for tourism development are often situated far from the main centres of other economic activities. However, an important point needs to be stressed: A clearly defined policy towards tourism must first be in place; otherwise, adverse effects on a country's economy, society, culture and environment can be expected.
To optimize the benefits from tourism, countries of the Greater Mekong subregion which are in the early stages of tourism development will need to be more aware of its various impacts and implications: the economic impact, correct environmental management for tourism infrastructure investment and development, human resources development for the service sector, additional travel arrangements to expand intra-regional tourism, and the promotion of regional and sub-regional tourism, including tourism along the Asian Highway.
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