Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance is preparing to revamp its gambling regulations, with plans to implement a casino entry fee model similar to Singapore’s. According to VietnamNet, locals will be required to pay VND2.5 million (around US$100) for 24-hour access to casinos.
This change signals a shift away from the current full financial screening process and is part of a broader effort to refine domestic gambling controls. The update follows reported discussions by Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long around making permanent exemptions for local gamblers at the Corona Resort & Casino in Phu Quoc.
Singapore’s Influence and Regional Tensions
Vietnam’s new approach closely mirrors Singapore’s controversial framework, where citizens must pay to access casinos. While aimed at controlling local participation, this type of regulation has proven divisive across Southeast Asia.
Thailand, for instance, saw intense pushback against similar proposals. Before her departure from office, former Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pushed for steep casino access barriers — including a US$150 entry fee and a requirement for Thai nationals to hold at least US$1.5 million in fixed deposits. These measures, seen as a way to steer casinos toward international tourists, triggered major friction and helped stall the country’s gambling bill.
Thai Casino Bill Collapses Amid Political Turmoil
Though restrictive gambling policies slowed progress in Thailand, it was political unrest that ultimately shelved the casino legislation. Shinawatra’s government lost critical support when the Bhumjaithai Party withdrew its backing following a leaked phone call between Shinawatra and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
The call, which surfaced amid rising border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, included comments perceived as undermining the Thai military. A Cambodian soldier’s death in a border clash only added fuel to the fire. While Shinawatra claimed her remarks were aimed at reducing tensions, her critics — including Bhumjaithai — accused her of damaging national sovereignty.
With the government’s majority weakened and the bill under Senate review, momentum stalled. A motion was introduced to halt the bill’s progress entirely, ending any short-term hopes for regulated casino development in Thailand.
Vietnam’s Trial Run for Locals Ends, But Talks Continue
In Vietnam, casinos like Hoiana (near Hoi An), Ho Tram (Ba Ria–Vung Tau), and Corona (Phu Quoc) continue to operate under “tourist-only” access rules. The Corona Casino had previously tested local entry under a limited trial, but that initiative has since concluded.
Now, with the Ministry of Finance pushing for a new paid-entry model, Vietnam may once again open its doors to local gamblers — but on carefully controlled terms.
