Developing a Sustainable Community-Based Tourism Model under the 2023 Law on Cooperatives: Experiences from Thiềng Liềng Community-Based Tourism

Abstract

The study analyzed the development process of the sustainable community-based tourism model in Thiềng Liềng (Ho Chi Minh City) in the context of the official implementation of the 2023 Cooperative Law, which has brought about significant changes to the legal framework and operational mechanisms for tourism cooperatives. By employing literature synthesis, field surveys, and case study analysis, the research clarified the central role of cooperatives in organizing, managing, coordinating activities, and distributing benefits among members, thereby contributing to enhancing the effectiveness of community-based tourism development.The findings indicated that the establishment of tourism cooperatives has facilitated livelihood transformation, preservation of traditional crafts, capacity building for the community, and the development of a distinctive destination brand for Thiềng Liềng. However, the model still faced numerous challenges related to infrastructure, human resources, management organization, and benefit-sharing mechanisms. Based on practical experience, the paper proposed solutions to improve the community-based tourism cooperative model, emphasizing the role of the new legal framework, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and the development of unique tourism products associated with the preservation of local values.