Vietnam

Vietnam’s tourism sector is experiencing an exceptional rebound, setting new visitor records and prompting renewed confidence across the nation’s casino industry. As international arrivals climb to their highest levels since the pandemic, integrated resorts and gaming operators are reporting improved occupancy, stronger footfall, and higher average spending. The tourism revival is also attracting new investment interest, with market analysts revising outlooks for 2026 and beyond.

Vietnam is entering a new phase in its gaming regulation landscape with updated policies designed to broaden casino access for local citizens. The reforms, shaped by years of cautious experimentation, aim to balance economic opportunity with social safeguards. By adjusting eligibility rules, refining pilot programs, and strengthening oversight mechanisms, the government seeks to stimulate tourism, enhance state revenue, and attract high-value investment while mitigating potential social risks.

Vietnam has taken another measured step in opening its gaming sector to domestic participation by authorizing a second casino to admit local players. The move reflects the government’s gradual shift toward a more inclusive gaming policy, following ongoing evaluations of the country’s pilot program that allows Vietnamese citizens to access select casino venues under regulated conditions. By expanding the initiative, authorities aim to boost tourism, stimulate regional development, and reduce outbound gaming expenditure.

Vietnam is evaluating a pilot initiative that could allow domestic residents to access casinos at Grand Ho Tram and Van Don, marking a potential shift in the country’s gaming policy. Traditionally restricted to foreign tourists, casino access for locals has long been tightly controlled due to social and regulatory concerns. The pilot program aims to test the economic and social impact of opening these premier gaming venues to Vietnamese citizens, potentially stimulating tourism, increasing tax revenue, and providing insights into responsible gambling practices.

Vietnam’s casino sector, once viewed as a potential magnet for tourism and foreign investment, is experiencing a mixed trajectory. While certain properties have managed to attract international high-rollers and domestic interest under pilot programs, others are grappling with underwhelming footfall and operational losses. Striking a balance between restrictive gambling laws, evolving tourism patterns, and investor expectations has proven difficult. The result is a fragmented industry—some casinos thrive on location and policy support, while others face mounting financial strain.

Vietnam’s Corona Resort & Casino posted a net loss of US$21 million in the first half of 2025, widening from prior projections and reflecting ongoing operational and market challenges. The decline is attributed to reduced visitor numbers, heightened competition, and rising operational costs amid a recovering tourism sector. Management emphasized strategic restructuring, cost optimization, and targeted marketing initiatives to stabilize revenue streams.

Vietnamese conglomerate Sun Group has unveiled plans to complete and launch its highly anticipated Van Don casino project by 2032, with an estimated investment of US$2 billion (approximately Rs. 16,600 crore). The development, which has been in the pipeline for several years, is expected to transform Van Don in Quang Ninh province into a premier destination for integrated tourism and gaming.

Vietnam has given approval to Sun Group for the development of a massive casino resort in Quang Ninh province, an investment estimated at over Rs. 16,600 crore (USD 2 billion). The project underscores the country’s ambition to strengthen its position as a global tourism hub while diversifying revenue sources through entertainment and gaming. Located near Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the resort is expected to attract international visitors, create thousands of jobs, and significantly boost the local economy.