The country may reduce restrictions regarding proof of financial capability
Vietnam is considering easing its casino gambling rules, potentially giving more local citizens access to an industry long restricted to foreign visitors. A new draft decree from the Ministry of Finance proposes replacing the current 2017 framework with updated guidelines designed to remove administrative obstacles and better match today’s regulatory environment.
Under the proposal, Vietnamese citizens aged 21 and older could enter casinos if they meet several conditions, including proving financial capability, purchasing an entry ticket, and not appearing on a restricted list. Players would exchange Vietnamese dong for chips and could convert unused chips back into currency.
The ministry says most of these safeguards have worked well, but the financial proof requirement has become overly burdensome, often requiring multiple documents that slow down both customers and operators.
Vietnam currently has nine functioning casinos and two more under construction, with major resorts located in Phu Quoc, Ho Tram, and Nam Hoi An. Between 2017 and 2022, the licensed properties generated nearly 23 trillion VND in revenue and contributed almost half of that amount to the national budget. Operations dipped during the pandemic but have since shown signs of recovery.
Phu Quoc’s casino has served as the country’s test case for allowing local players. During its five-year trial program, Vietnamese gamblers made up just over half of all visitors yet were responsible for nearly 90% of the casino’s revenue. Most were men in their 30s and 40s, highlighting a strong domestic market that policymakers may now be more willing to tap.
The ministry’s review indicates that the overall regulatory structure remains sound but needs adjustments to improve efficiency and reflect new policy goals. If adopted, the draft decree could mark the most significant shift in Vietnam’s casino rules in years.
