Vietnam may be moving closer to a new stage in gambling regulation, as local media reports suggest that two land-based casinos could be granted permission to admit local players.
Currently, legislation strictly limits Vietnamese citizens’ participation in gambling. Casinos, online betting, and sports wagering remain prohibited for locals.
However, pilot programs have already been launched in the country, allowing local residents to gamble in certain venues, and their duration has now been extended for another five years.
The Grand Ho Tram and Van Don Integrated Resort are the key facilities included in the expanded program.
To ensure the financial sustainability of operators, the Ministry of Finance has proposed entry fees of VND 2.5 million (about $100) for a 24-hour casino pass, or VND 50 million (around $2,000) for a monthly pass.
The extension of the pilot project must receive final approval from Vietnam’s Prime Minister, Pham Minh Chính, and the Minister of Finance.
The approach now being implemented in Vietnam is largely modeled on Singapore’s framework, which many experts regard as the “gold standard” in Asia.
This reflects the continued development of the country’s gambling decree and introduces a requirement for foreign online game providers to maintain an official presence in the region. The measure aims to foster stronger alignment between companies, local legislation, and market growth.
At the same time, casinos participating in the expanded pilot program are subject to strict obligations regarding player age verification and surveillance systems.
Corona Resort & Casino in Phu Quoc previously took part in the pilot program that allowed local residents to gamble. Although the trial’s outcomes were significantly constrained by the COVID-19 pandemic, reports suggest that the resort may be granted permanent status to admit Vietnamese players.
Taken together, these moves illustrate the country’s gradual shift in its stance toward casinos and the steady evolution of its gambling regulatory framework.
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