A boost for economy and tourism

Host cities of the APEC Summit typically experience a wave of large-scale infrastructure investment as they prepare to meet the rigorous standards required to host heads of state, global leaders and thousands of international delegates. These upgrades often create a strong foundation for long-term development, helping multiple sectors, especially real estate, enter a new growth cycle.

Da Nang’s growth following APEC 2017 offers a clear example. Infrastructure projects such as airport upgrades, street improvements and major resort developments later became strategic assets that supported the city’s rapid progress in tourism and real estate. Comparing the periods before and after the summit, land prices in several areas rose by 10-30%, while transaction prices in residential neighborhoods of the southern area increased by 10-20%. Notably, this upward trend remained stable for many years after APEC concluded.

Da Nang’s real estate landscape experienced a major breakthrough post-APEC 2017. Photo: Anh Duong

A similar pattern is observed in Gyeongju, South Korea. According to the Daegu Gyeongbuk Development Institute, the APEC 2025 Summit is projected to yield an economic impact of 972 billion won, alongside the creation of approximately 8,000 jobs.

More than just a temporary boost, these numbers signal a robust outlook for the tourism and property sectors. This trend is forecasted to recur in future APEC venues, most notably Phu Quoc - a locale that has already solidified its reputation as a world-class destination.

In 2025, the Pearl Island welcomed approximately 8.1 million visitors. This included 1.8 million international tourists, nearly doubling the previous year's figure. Sunset Town in South Phu Quoc alone attracts 15,000 to 20,000 daily visitors. These tourists come to experience attractions such as the world’s longest three-wire cable car, the iconic Kiss Bridge at sunset and world-class multimedia show. The area also offers easy access to Kem Beach, consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches.

Iconic nightly shows at Sunset Town drawing large numbers of visitors.

Iconic nightly shows at Sunset Town drawing large numbers of visitors. Photo: Anh Duong.

"My properties have been at full capacity since last November, and demand remains remarkably high. The influx of visitors to Phu Quoc over the last two years has enabled investors like me to achieve a rapid return on capital. I expect our business to scale even further following APEC," said Ms. Vo Thi Kieu Thu, an investor at Sun Grand City Hillside Residence.

Real estate takes off via infrastructure launchpad

In preparation for APEC 2027, Phu Quoc is entering its most intensive infrastructure development phase in years, particularly in the island’s southern area. Driven by Sun Group’s vision, these projects go far beyond serving the summit itself. They are part of a broader strategy to position Phu Quoc as a global tourism hub capable of welcoming millions of visitors each year.

“Once upgraded, Phu Quoc International Airport will be able to accommodate wide-body aircraft and handle up to 20 million passengers annually. At the same time, the launch of Sun PhuQuoc Airways is strengthening the Pearl Island’s connectivity with international markets. Since its debut, the airline has also maintained one of the industry’s highest punctuality rates,” a Sun Group representative said.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways boosting international connectivity for Phu Quoc.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways boosting international connectivity for Phu Quoc. Photo: Anh Duong.

Alongside aviation infrastructure, Phu Quoc’s ground transportation network is also being strategically developed. Provincial Road DT.975, stretching more than 19 km with a planned width of 62 meters and at least 10 lanes, is envisioned as the “backbone” connecting the airport with the APEC Convention and Exhibition Center, as well as key tourism zones in the southern part of the island. Once completed, the route will not only shorten travel time but also help reshape Phu Quoc’s urban structure into a multi-center model, creating significant momentum for property values in the southern area.

Complementing this network, the Phase 1 urban railway will span 18 km with six stations, including one underground stop, and is designed to carry more than 4,500 passengers per hour. Once operational, the railway will effectively bridge the distance between tourism, shopping, entertainment and conference areas, making travel within the island as convenient as in leading global resort cities. Backed by nearly VND 9 trillion in investment and slated for completion in 2027, the line is expected to enhance connectivity while boosting the value of real estate projects along its route.

At the heart of the APEC-serving infrastructure ecosystem is the Convention and Exhibition Center, with a total investment of about VND 21.8 trillion. Covering 16.06 hectares, the complex will include an APEC park, a multi-purpose theater, and a convention and exhibition center. The complex is expected to serve as an international cultural venue, hosting film festivals, major arts events and large-scale entertainment programs. Such activities could generate a steady flow of visitors for nearby hospitality projects, including the Bai Dat Do multifunctional urban area and Sun Grand City Hillside Residence.

Sun Grand City Hillside Residence apartments with premium oceanfront views.

Sun Grand City Hillside Residence apartments with premium oceanfront views. Photo: Anh Duong.

“Hosting an international event like APEC requires infrastructure to meet much higher planning and construction standards. This will help build a long-term urban foundation for Phu Quoc, while also creating unprecedented opportunities for the real estate market and early investors,” said Dr. Nguyen Van Dinh, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Realtors.

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