Research trends in community-based tourism: A bibliometric analysis

Community-based tourism (CBT) has emerged as a vital model for advancing sustainable development by fostering economic opportunities, preserving cultural heritage, and protecting the environment. This study conducts a bibliometric review of 365 Scopus-indexed articles published between 2000 and 2024 to map the intellectual structure and research frontiers of CBT. Using bibliometric techniques, the analysis identifies eight major thematic clusters: (1) cultural and rural tourism, (2) community participation, (3) empowerment, (4) social responsibility, (5) tourist behavior and innovation, (6) poverty reduction, (7) leadership, and (8) sustainable development. The results reveal both enduring themes, such as empowerment and sustainability, and emerging directions, including resilience, innovation, and tourist experience. Although Vietnam contributes only 12 publications, it is gradually positioning itself as a new research hub in Asia, with a focus on cultural preservation and local economic development. However, challenges remain, particularly limited stakeholder collaboration and the slow adoption of digital technologies. The study highlights future opportunities in customer experience research, value co-creation, and technological innovation, offering theoretical insights and practical implications for advancing CBT in line with global sustainability and resilience agendas.