Investors look at SEZs
A three-year trial of locals gaming at Vietnam casinos is set to launch December 1, the locations of the casinos has still not been disclosed.
According to VietNamNet Bridge, on November 3 the Ministry of Finance only confirmed that Vietnamese players will have to prove they meet certain financial benchmarks to be eligible to enter a casino. Vietnamese over the age of 21 must prove they earn at least VND10 million (US$440) per month or are taxed at “Level 3” or higher, reported Inside Asian Gaming.
They will also be required to buy tickets for entry. Previous reports have indicated the fees could be set at VND1 million (US$44) for a single ticket or VND25 million (US$1,100) for a monthly pass.
In recent reports, just two venues—one in Quang Ninh Province and the other on Phu Quoc Island—were deemed likely to participate in the three-year pilot program. But both of the properties are still under construction.
Meanwhile, opening casinos to locals has prompted much interest in the country among investors, reported VietNamNet Bridge, “especially in the special economic zones of Van Don, Phu Quoc and Bac Van Phong.”
The Van Don project, for example, reportedly covers 2,500 hectares (6,177 acres) and has investment capital of $2 billion.
In addition to the casino trial, Vietnam’s Finance Ministry also has authorized a five-year trial of betting on international football matches, greyhound and horse races. That program will also launch on December 1.
