At the prestigious International Travel Expo (ITE) Vietnam 2025 held from 4–6 September at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center, India made a compelling showcase of its tourism potential. Spearheading this effort was the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), acting in close partnership with India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to deliver the vibrant ASEAN–India Pavilion.
This initiative stands at the nucleus of 2025: ASEAN–India Year of Tourism, reinforcing bonds through tourism, culture, and business.
Highlights from the ASEAN–India Pavilion
- The Pavilion was officially launched by Vipra Pandey, Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, symbolizing the diplomatic and cultural depth of this collaboration.
- IRCTC drew attention with India’s iconic luxury trains such as the Maharajas’ Express, Golden Chariot, and Buddhist Circuit Deluxe AC Tourist Trains, positioning them as hallmark experiences for cultural, wellness, and heritage travelers.
- Over and above tourism promotion, IRCTC led the logistics of India’s delegation, which included tour operators, state tourism boards, and ASEAN counterparts—reinforcing trade ties and people-to-people connections through a special ASEAN–India Tourism Roadshow.
Strategic Significance
- Acting on National Momentum: This activation underlines India’s commitment to strengthening Indo–ASEAN relations, with tourism as a key conduit for regional integration and economic synergy.
- Catalyzing Cross-Cultural Engagement: Bringing together tourism leaders across Southeast Asia, the Pavilion aimed to catalyze new partnerships, inspire collaborative itineraries, and foster mutual cultural appreciation.
- Proactive Diplomatic Boost: The dual participation in both Thailand’s PATA Travel Mart and ITE Vietnam, anchored by IRCTC, serves as a visible testament to India’s proactive approach to regional diplomacy through tourism.
About IRCTC & the ASEAN–India Year of Tourism 2025
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is a leading public-sector entity offering integrated tourism, ticketing, and hospitality services. As the operational arm overseeing India’s entry at ITE Vietnam, IRCTC has showcased India’s luxury tourism offerings and extended logistics support for its delegation.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs designated 2025 as the ASEAN–India Year of Tourism, aimed at amplifying regional connectivity, deepening cultural exchange, and unlocking economic opportunities through people-centered tourism partnerships.
