Gambling has been in the tradition of Vietnamese people for centuries, but many gambling activities are barred by law for the locals. However, there have been several efforts recently to relax these restrictions.
Until 2017, only foreigners have been admitted to Vietnamese casinos. According to Decree 03 announced in 2017, locals also got permission to gamble at casinos issued by competent authorities. However, there are strict regulations for locals, and there’s not much room for grey areas. Vietnamese citizens are allowed to gamble if they are 21 years old or more, have a stable monthly income of approximately $450, have a clean record, and have consent from the immediate family. Also, local players need to pay a daily entry fee of $45 or apply for the monthly pass that is around $1000.
Nearby countries for Vietnamese casino players
Malaysia
Since these regulations are stringent, Vietnamese people are looking beyond the country’s borders to enjoy favorite casino games. Malaysia is one of the most popular locations for Vietnamese players. It is Vietnam’s neighbor country, and a lot of Vietnamese people go there for business and travel. However, Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, and gambling is considered illegal for Muslims.. On the other hand, online gambling is overlooked and not regulated by any act. Authorities usually tolerate it, especially for non-residents who are not bound by Sharia law. Some of the best online casinos in Malaysia can be found here. Besides online casinos, Genting Highlight Resort facilitates the only legal land-based casino in Malaysia.
Macao
Another trendy gambling destination for Vietnamese players is Macao – the Asian capital of gambling. It is a former Portuguese colony, and gambling has been legalized there since the 1850s. Today, it is a particular administrative region in China and the only place where gambling is legal in the world’s most populated country. Players can find 41 casinos in Macao, and The Venetian Macao is the biggest one. Of course, Vietnamese people are admitted, and they can enjoy all kinds of casino games, such as roulette, slots, blackjack, baccarat, and other table games. Players can experience a unique Vegas-like atmosphere, and get assured why Macao is also called “Monte Carlo of the East.” Besides the extraordinary casino experience, players can try out their luck on horse races or greyhound races.
Thailand
Poker players tend to set their sights to Thailand. Although this is another country where gambling is prohibited, a sphere of online gambling is not explicitly defined. Nevertheless, local and foreign players take advantage of that, and online gambling activities are growing each year in this country. Thailand has been very popular among poker players who cannot enjoy the game from their home countries. Quite a few online players relocated to Thailand after some of the most popular poker sites exited their countries’ markets. Vietnamese people who travel to Thailand for tourism can also try their luck at some of the most reputable online casinos.
Philippines
Citizens of Vietnam can count on the Philippines as another destination suitable for gambling activities. Unlike Thailand and Malaysia, gambling in this country is legalized, and the industry is growing very fast. It is expected to grow by 20% in the next few years. Players should be able to enjoy both land-based and online casinos. Brick-and-mortar venues are offering different types of casino games, and players can enjoy slot machines, roulette, blackjack, or poker. You can choose from dozens of physical casinos, and most of them are located in the Philippines capital, Manila. One of the most famous land-based casinos in this country is Resorts World Manila, which is the first integrated resort in the Philippines. Besides physical venues, players can also try out their luck at many online casinos since the world’s most famous gambling sites are accessible from this country.
Final thoughts
The relaxation of Vietnamese gambling laws is a good sign that the industry could bring benefits to the state budget. It might lead to full legislation of this fast-growing industry, and taxes on gambling activities can provide significant revenue. The legislation could attract investors as well, and diversify the offer of land-based casinos in the country. Finally, casino players wouldn’t search for alternative ways of enjoying their favorite games in nearby countries, and there would be much less illegal markets.