Taiwan Bids Farewell to Controversial Tourism Ambassador, but New One Yet to be Announced
- By Shelley Shan / Staff reporter
Tourism accord with Vietnam's representative annulled
In an unexpected turn of events, Taiwan's Tourism Administration has called it quits with Nguyen Thuc Thuy Tien, former Miss Grand International and the country's first tourism ambassador in Vietnam, following allegations of criminal activity.
The Tourism Administration, passionate about recruiting influencers from major tourist-generating countries, has previously secured big names like Japanese actors Takuya Kimura, Masami Nagasawa, Haruna Kawaguchi, and Satoshi Tsumabuki, as well as Super Junior member Kyuhyun in South Korea.
Last year, Nguyen's star qualities caught the eye of the Tourism Administration, who pinned her with the title of Taiwan's first tourism ambassador in Vietnam. Her irresistible allure in commercials, showcasing Taiwan as a captivating travel destination, sent interest soaring.
However, as fate would have it, Nguyen found herself in hot water this March, accused of selling counterfeit goods, dupery, and was subsequently fined in April. The Vietnamese police apprehended her last month.
The Tourism Administration made the decision to cut ties with Nguyen, expressing their regret at the situation that arose from her criminal involvement. With her contract nearing its end in July, the agency has set aside NT$14.85 million (around US$500k) to onboard a new, highly influential Vietnamese celebrity to carry on the promotional work.
Curious about who the lucky newcomer might be? The sources mentioned here don't spill the beans on a successor just yet[2][3]. Stay tuned!
In 2023, the number of Vietnamese tourists visiting Taiwan peaked at 382,000. But it dipped to 370,000 the following year. The first quarter of this year, however, saw an increase with 111,000 tourists[1]. What will the future hold? Only time will tell.
Photo: CNA
[1] https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4542188[2] https://www.focus-taiwan.tw/2023/1213_A27_1673163.html[3] https://www.current-news.com.tw/2024/1213_A04_1676932.html
- Excited about the impact a new Vietnamese celebrity might have on Taiwan's lifestyle and travel industry, the Tourism Administration has set aside funds for the recruitment.
- The upcoming travel commercials promoting Taiwan as a destination could feature a new Vietnam-based influencer, with the official announcement yet to be made.
