Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance is looking at new casino rules that could make it easier for local people to enter casinos. The government is preparing a review to see how the new rules might work while still keeping control over the industry.

This review follows recent changes that already allowed more Vietnamese citizens to gamble, including giving permanent access at Corona Resort and Casino in Phu Quoc and starting a five year trial for locals at The Grand Ho Tram.

Review of Current Entry Requirements

The review focuses on Decree 03 of 2017, which sets the current casino rules. The new draft would keep key requirements, such as being at least 21, having full legal capacity, and paying an entry fee. A main change under consideration is how players prove they can afford to gamble.

At present, Vietnamese citizens must provide several documents to show their income before entering a casino. Operators and regulators say this process is slow and complicated, often stopping eligible players. Officials are now considering replacing these checks with a higher entry fee. They believe this would make it easier for players to enter while still ensuring that only those with enough money can gamble, simplifying the process for the casinos and customers.

Reforms Linked to Industry Recovery

Vietnam’s gaming industry is still recovering from the effects of the COVID 19 pandemic. Between 2017 and 2022, nine smaller casinos and three big resorts, Corona, Ho Tram, and Hoiana, earned about 950 million dollars and contributed around 490 million dollars to the state budget. During this time, growth was limited by border closures, travel restrictions, and construction delays.

Recent moves show officials may be ready to support more growth. In November, the government confirmed that Vietnamese citizens would keep permanent access to Corona Resort. The Grand Ho Tram was also added to a five year trial, allowing authorities to study its economic impact, social effects, and how well regulations are working.

Wider Gambling Rules Also Being Discussed

The Ministry of Finance is also looking at other gambling rules. One idea is to raise the daily betting limit for legal international sports betting from one million to ten million Vietnamese dong. Some business groups say this may still be too low and could push players to illegal offshore sites. Industry groups also want more flexible advertising rules, including limited online ads with strong age and safety checks. Right now, most advertising would stay limited to physical locations and official websites.

Officials say the goal is to support economic growth while keeping gambling safe and responsible. There is no set date for the new rules, but they would be an important update to Vietnam’s gambling laws.