Vietnam’s Corona Resort & Casino in Phu Quoc will temporarily stop allowing Vietnamese citizens to gamble at its casino from January 1, citing compliance with recent regulatory changes. The announcement, made on the resort’s official website, marks a significant shift in the country’s locals-play pilot programme.
A Regulatory Adjustment Prompts the Change
The move comes in response to an amendment to Vietnam’s 2017 decree on permitting economically-qualified locals to gamble. In November, national authorities revised the decree, creating uncertainty about the scheme’s future. While the government deliberates on whether to continue or terminate the pilot programme, Corona Resort has decided to pause local access to its casino.
The resort’s management explained, “This decision ensures full compliance with current legal regulations while preparing for adjustments based on future policies.” The suspension aims to align with the amended rules and any subsequent guidance from the government.
What Does This Mean for Local Gamblers?
For now, Vietnamese citizens will lose access to the casino floor at Corona Resort. However, the property has assured that benefits extended to local customers under current business policies will remain intact. This commitment signals the resort’s intent to maintain goodwill among its Vietnamese clientele.
Updates on the matter will be shared as new regulations emerge. A notice on the website states that international patrons are unaffected by this decision and can continue enjoying casino services as usual.
A Unique Pilot Programme in Vietnam
Corona Resort & Casino holds a unique position as the first venue authorised to allow Vietnamese citizens to gamble. The locals-play scheme, part of a broader government experiment, has been a carefully monitored initiative. Launched in 2019 alongside Corona Resort’s opening, the pilot was initially set to run for three years but has since been extended multiple times.
In August, VietNamNet reported that authorities were leaning toward continuing the scheme until at least the end of the year. That extension was later confirmed in November, but the latest amendments have left the programme’s future uncertain.
- Launched: 2019
- Initial duration: 3 years
- Aim: Allow economically-qualified Vietnamese citizens to gamble under strict conditions
- Status: Pending decision on continuation or termination
International Business Continues Uninterrupted
While the suspension applies to local players, the casino remains fully operational for international visitors and partners. This strategic decision ensures minimal disruption to the resort’s core business and global clientele.
“Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc takes pride in being the first enterprise authorised to pilot Vietnamese citizens playing at a casino, offering unparalleled and world-class experiences,” the resort reiterated in its announcement.
Looking Ahead
The suspension raises questions about the long-term viability of the locals-play scheme in Vietnam. If the programme is discontinued, it could signify a shift in the government’s approach to gambling regulations. Conversely, if extended, it may come with tighter controls or revisions based on lessons learned during the pilot.
For now, the spotlight remains on the government’s next move, with many stakeholders eagerly awaiting clarity. Meanwhile, Corona Resort’s decision underscores its focus on regulatory compliance and readiness for policy shifts.
