The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) has partnered with Agoda and the National Tourism Organizations of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) to launch a regional E-commerce Training Program for MSME accommodation providers. The initiative kicks off on 18 September in Thailand and will continue through November, rolling out across the Mekong countries.
Designed for homestays, guesthouses, and ecolodges, the program equips local entrepreneurs with the digital skills needed to thrive in today’s online travel marketplace. Training modules will focus on managing listings, pricing strategies, and customer reviews, giving small businesses the tools to strengthen their online presence and reach a global audience.
Why It Matters
Tourism in the Mekong region has long depended on the vibrancy of grassroots operators—family-run stays, community lodges, and eco-conscious accommodations that reflect the cultural richness of rural and secondary destinations. Yet many of these businesses face barriers in accessing digital platforms and competing in an increasingly online-driven travel economy.
By bridging that gap, the MTCO–Agoda collaboration promotes:
- Inclusive growth: Opening opportunities for small-scale operators to benefit from regional tourism.
- Sustainable development: Channeling visitor flows into lesser-known areas, easing pressure on urban hubs.
- Competitiveness: Helping local businesses build confidence in e-commerce and digital visibility.
A Public–Private Partnership Milestone
This initiative underscores the power of public–private collaboration in advancing the digital transformation of tourism. With MTCO’s regional leadership, Agoda’s platform expertise, and the support of national tourism authorities, the project sets a benchmark for scalable, impact-driven training programs.
The outcome? A more resilient, connected, and competitive Mekong tourism ecosystem—one where small businesses don’t just survive but thrive in the digital age.
🔗 Learn more: mekongtourism.org
