VIENTIANE, Oct. 31 (Xinhua) -- Laos is continuing its efforts to improve tourism by enhancing service quality, strengthening infrastructure, and promoting sustainable practices.

The ancient city of Luang Prabang has added another milestone to its record of global recognition after being awarded the Green Destinations 2025-2027 silver level certification, becoming the first city in Laos to achieve this distinction. The award was presented during the Sustainable Destinations Forum 2025 held on Oct. 28-29 in the United Arab Emirates.

Building on its previous recognition in the Top 100 Green Destinations, the award highlights the city's commitment to sustainable tourism, clean environments, responsible waste management, and community-based initiatives that preserve cultural heritage while supporting local livelihoods. The province now aims to further strengthen its sustainability standards, reinforcing its position as a global model for eco-friendly tourism.

Laos' tourism sector is showing promising signs of recovery in 2025, welcoming 3,061,928 foreign visitors in the first eight months, a 15 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Speaking at the 33rd national tour guide training program in mid-October, Khampheuy Philapha, director of the Personnel Department under the Lao Ministry of Culture and Tourism, noted that the revival is particularly visible in key destinations such as Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Meuang Feuang, Luang Prabang, Champasak, and other major tourist hotspots.

The ministry stressed the importance of sustaining this momentum by strengthening tourism infrastructure, improving service quality, and investing in workforce development.

Meanwhile, Vientiane province is aiming to attract more visitors by the end of 2025 as tourism shows strong signs of recovery, according to a Lao News Agency report on Tuesday.

Local authorities reported a vibrant revival in the province's tourism industry, prompting upgrades to key infrastructure and attractions, including road construction, site development, and facility improvements. The province is also promoting community-based tourism and encouraging local business participation, while working to raise service quality and facilities to meet global standards.

Gaining popularity in ecotourism, adventure, and cultural tourism, Laos has been actively promoting forest tourism, which not only attracts visitors but also drives economic growth, generates income, brings in foreign exchange, creates jobs, and supports sustainable conservation. By developing this sector, Laos aims to distribute economic benefits widely at both national and regional levels while enhancing its appeal as a diverse and sustainable travel destination.

The country is projected to welcome 4.38 million foreign tourists in 2025, a 6 percent increase from 2024, along with 4.19 million domestic tourists, up 7 percent. By 2026, those figures are expected to rise to 4.46 million international and 4.37 million domestic travelers.