Authorities on Phu Quoc Island off the coast of Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam are stepping up enforcement against foreign nationals working illegally as tour guides, a growing issue that officials say could undermine the island’s tourism image.

Since June 2024, the number of international visitors to Phu Quoc has surged, bringing an influx of foreigners -- particularly from South Korea, Taiwan, and Russia -- who have begun working as tour guides, according to the Phu Quoc Professional Tour Guide Association.

Phu Quoc City welcomed nearly six million visitors in 2024, including one million international arrivals. 

However, local tour guide representatives warned that several foreign guides lack knowledge of Vietnamese culture and history, leading to misinformation that could harm the island’s reputation.

“We expect local authorities, the provincial Department of Tourism, and relevant agencies to strengthen inspections and take action against the pressing issue of foreign nationals working as tour guides in Phu Quoc City," said Truong Cong Tam, chairman of the association.

“This is necessary not only to address the problem but also to ensure the safety and positive experiences of tourists."

This week, inspectors from the Kien Giang Department of Tourism launched a crackdown at key locations, including Phu Quoc International Airport, the Hon Thom Cable Car, Sunset Town, and Grand World. 

These high-traffic sites have seen an increase in foreign tour guides operating alongside local guides.

Tran Thanh Hai, head of the provincial department’s inspection team, confirmed that the number of foreign nationals acting as tour guides on the island had risen.

During a recent drive, authorities questioned six local guides and two foreign nationals suspected of leading tour groups. 

Officials are verifying their status and have pledged stricter penalties if violations are confirmed.

In the first two months of 2025, Kien Giang Province welcomed more than 2.2 million visitors, including over 325,000 international tourists -- a 50-percent year-on-year increase. 

The province’s tourism revenue is projected to reach nearly VND9 trillion (US$352 million) between January and February.

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