Vietnamese livestreamer explores China-Vietnam tourism cooperation in Kunming

For Hoang Van Khoa, tourism is about spotting opportunities. The 35-year-old Vietnamese livestreamer, known as PewPew, sees China's rapid e-commerce and logistics as a blueprint for his own country, while envisioning Vietnam as a ripe market for Chinese investment. His latest trip to Kunming, timed with the launch of the China-Vietnam tourism cooperation year, is less a vacation and more a fact-finding mission for mutual growth.

Khoa began his journey at Kunming Old Street, a site filled with historical relics and preserved buildings, which he said reminded him of how rapidly China has developed. He then visited the former residence of the late Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh, where he witnessed what he called the enduring cooperation between China and Vietnam. It's a partnership he believes offers substantial benefits for both peoples and one he is eager to contribute to.

Tourism, Khoa noted, is one of the best ways for people to see, feel, and understand each other. He pointed out that Kunming and other parts of China offer remarkable sights, rich culture, and delicious cuisine that many Vietnamese have yet to explore. Similarly, Vietnam holds unique attractions that Chinese visitors would find captivating. "I want to create more vlogs to showcase the beauty of both countries to each other's people," he said.

Khoa's connection with China dates back to 2023, when he visited the Canton Fair in Guangzhou, Guangdong province. During that trip, he spontaneously hopped on a bus and rode all the way to Foshan, watching city life unfold along the way. That day, before catching a taxi back, he played ping-pong with two elderly gentlemen whom he had met nearby. "I keep sharing this story with friends as a testament to how safe China is," he said. "You can wander freely and feel completely at ease."

On a different trip to Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, he discovered promising opportunities in e-commerce. He believes Vietnam can learn from China's success. He contrasted China's efficient logistics — where apples ordered online at night arrive fresh and affordable the next day — with Vietnam's, where fruit isn't as readily available despite the abundance.

He added that there is a significant opportunity for Chinese brands to invest in Vietnam, while Vietnamese farmers and brands can tap into China's massive market.