Ecotourism development strategies for Chua Chan Mountain, Vietnam: A SWOT–QSPM framework

Abstract. Ha NT. 2025. Ecotourism development strategies for Chua Chan Mountain, Vietnam: A SWOT–QSPM framework. Asian J For 9: 361-371. Ecotourism represents a vital pathway for harmonizing environmental conservation and local development in Vietnam, yet many destinations still lack structured strategies for sustainable growth. This study developed an integrated strategic framework for ecotourism development at Chua Chan Mountain, Dong Nai Province, Vietnam, using the combined Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) and Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM) approaches. Data were collected from field surveys, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews with local stakeholders to identify and prioritize feasible strategies. SWOT analysis identified key internal and external factors influencing ecotourism potential, while IFEM and EFEM scores of 2.68 and 2.69, respectively, indicated moderately favorable internal and external conditions for sustainable tourism development. QSPM results prioritized strategic alternatives based on Total Attractiveness Scores (TAS), with the highest-ranking strategy being comprehensive ecotourism and community-based tourism planning (TAS=2.14), emphasizing environmental protection and community participation. Lower-priority strategies focus on tourism diversification and attracting researchers and students. Other recommended actions focus on diversifying tourism products, enhancing workforce training, and fostering collaboration with tourism enterprises. These findings highlight the importance of balancing ecological protection, community participation, and economic benefits. This study contributes a replicable framework for integrating SWOT and QSPM into a unified, quantitative decision-making framework for identifying and prioritizing ecotourism development strategies. Future research should assess the long-term socio-economic and environmental impacts to ensure adaptability and sustained growth globally.