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Year 2026
 
Vol 67, Issue 5, [10 - 2026]

Research trends in geotourism and development potential in Vietnam: A Scopus-based bibliometric analysis

DOI:10.46326/JMES.2026.67(5).03

  • Affiliations:

    1 Hanoi University of Mining and Geology, Hanoi, Vietnam
    2 VNU University of Social Sciences and Humanities, VNU, Hanoi, Vietnam
    3 VNU University of Science, VNU, Hanoi, Vietnam
    4 The Saigon International University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

  • *Corresponding:
    This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • Received: 20th-Feb-2026
  • Revised: 11st-June-2026
  • Accepted: 1st-July-2026
  • Online: 1st-Oct-2026
Pages: 30 - 46
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Abstract:

Geotourism is a sustainable tourism approach grounded in geoheritage, linking geodiversity conservation with education, visitor experiences, and local economic development. This paper reviews research trends in geotourism and assesses Vietnam’s development potential through bibliometric analysis. Data were retrieved from the Scopus database using thematic keyword sets; after screening, 1,925 publications from 2002-2025 were retained. Network structures were visualized using VOSviewer. The results indicate a rapid increase in publications, particularly since 2017, reflecting the expansion of the geopark model and the growing demand for sustainable geoheritage governance. Prominent thematic clusters focus on: (i) geoheritage conservation and management; (ii) sustainable development and education; (iii) geosite value assessment and tourism product development; and (iv) environmental impacts and destination governance. In terms of research distribution, Europe dominates both publication output and collaborative networks, whereas Vietnam’s publication volume remains limited, suggesting substantial research gaps. Based on this review, the paper argues that Vietnam has strong potential for geotourism development due to its diverse geological resources and the network of four UNESCO Global Geoparks. Accordingly, it proposes priority directions including: strengthening baseline data and foundational research; developing place-based products aligned with regional comparative advantages; enhancing interpretation capacity, communication, and community participation; and expanding international collaboration to advance sustainable geotourism development.

How to Cite
., A.Manh Do, Dang, B.Kinh, Tran, T.Duc and Vo, C.Cong Thi 2026. Research trends in geotourism and development potential in Vietnam: A Scopus-based bibliometric analysis (in Vietnamese). Journal of Mining and Earth Sciences. 67, 5 (Oct, 2026), 30-46. DOI:https://doi.org/10.46326/JMES.2026.67(5).03.
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