Vietnam considers plan to double casino entry fees for locals

Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance has proposed doubling entry fees for local residents at casinos to limit access to those with sufficient financial means.

Under the draft rules, a 24-hour ticket would rise to VND 2.5 million (US$95.1) and a monthly pass to VND 50 million (US$1,902). The move replaces the current income verification process, which authorities say is cumbersome and blocks spontaneous gambling.

Vietnam has allowed locals to gamble at certain casinos if they meet specific criteria since 2016, including being at least 21 years old and earning a minimum monthly income of VND 10 million (US$380.4).

However, authorities said the system has proven cumbersome, as many players cannot provide the required documentation on short notice. “Many cannot provide the required documents as they must be thoroughly prepared in advance,” it said.

The draft regulation also introduces stricter operational rules for casinos. The nine authorized casinos would be required to verify and retain customer data for at least five years.

Facilities must operate within integrated tourism and entertainment zones with a minimum investment of €1.85 billion (US$1.96 billion) and maintain 24/7 surveillance in key areas, with footage stored for 180 days and made available to authorities upon request.

The proposal carries particular significance for Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s flagship special economic zone and home to Corona Resort & Casino, the only facility allowed under the government’s pilot program for local players.

Launched in January 2019 with an investment of nearly VND 50 trillion (US$1.902 billion), the casino offered daily tickets at VND 1 million (US$238.8) and monthly passes at VND 25 million (US$951).

Despite a post-pandemic tourism surge—Phu Quoc welcomed over six million visitors in 2024, nearly 50% more than in 2019—Corona reported losses exceeding VND 300 billion (US$11.41million) in the first half of 2024, attributed to interest, depreciation, and fewer Vietnamese players after the pilot program ended on 31 December 2024.

The government is reviewing permanent local access to casinos in Phu Quoc ahead of APEC 2027.