Infographic/CGTN

Official reports from Vietnam News Agency (VNA) indicate, Vietnam aims to attract 23 million foreign tourists in 2025, with Chinese visitors being the largest group. Guangdong, China's top outbound tourism province, has shown particular enthusiasm for Vietnam as a destination. Over 50 direct weekly flights connect Guangdong to Vietnam, while cross-border tourism initiatives like self-drive tours continue to expand.

A Yadea electric motorcycle store in Bac Giang, Vietnam.[YANG HAN/CHINA DAILY]

In recent years, economic cooperation and cultural exchange between Guangdong and Vietnam continue to deepen.

China remains Vietnam's largest trading partner, with Guangdong alone contributing about 20 percent of the total bilateral trade volume. For Vietnam, Guangdong serves as the primary gateway to China's vast domestic market, while for China, the province acts as a crucial hub connecting trade and supply chains to Vietnam and the broader ASEAN region. Notably, ASEAN has been Guangdong's top trading partner since 2020.

Recent investment data highlights this strengthening relationship. In 2023, Guangdong businesses established 135 new enterprises in Vietnam with actual investments reaching 88.13 million. Meanwhile,Vietnamese companies initiated 43 projects in Guangdong valued at 67.36 million yuan.

Chinese dramas captivate Vietnamese viewers. Clockwise from top left: A TV drama based on the Chinese classic Journey to the West, costume drama The Legend of Shen Li, crime thriller Escape from the Trilateral Slopes, female empowerment saga The Tale of Rose, revenge drama The Double and urban romance The First Frost have all been a hit with Vietnamese audiences in recent years.[Photo/China Daily]

Cultural and city-to-city exchanges have also flourished. Shantou city in Guangdong province first established friendly ties with Vietnam's Can Tho city in 2005. Guangzhou and Hanoi began building their sister-city relationship in 2012 through various exchanges, including delegation visits, student programs, and tourism cooperation. Their partnership reached new heights in September 2024 when they signed a memorandum to enhance collaboration in smart city development, rail transit, environmental protection, and professional training.

At the provincial level, Guangdong and Ho Chi Minh City officially became sister regions in November 2009 during Guangdong's 30th anniversary celebration of international city partnerships, marking a significant milestone in their relationship.

Source: Nanfang Plus
English author & editor: Lyu Yun