In today’s world, the profits of the ever-expanding tourism industry are seen to be taken by the large global corporate organizations, while small businesses and local communities are perceived to miss out on the industry’s many benefits.

Tourism brings a range of positive outcomes at all levels of the economy, from jobs and foreign earnings to improved local communities through broadened facilities and cultural exchange.

The South-east Asian Tourism Organisation (SEATO) is committed to bringing the full range of tourism benefits to the villages and kampongs of South-east Asia by linking international expertise into development programs aimed at regional and local tourism growth.