Vietnam Poker Scene Shrouded in Uncertainty as USOP Hanoi Becomes Latest Cancellation

The unbeaten streak for Vietnamese poker fans has ended with the cancellation of the USOP Hanoi series, the fourth significant tournament to be canceled in the previous six months.

A statement from the regional partner Crown Poker Club and “sudden unforeseen regulatory changes” were provided by the organizers when they announced the cancellation on Tuesday.

The World Poker Tour (WPT) Hanoi series was canceled, which has caused grave concerns about potential regulatory action against poker in Vietnam. This is shocking news.

In December, the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Hanoi Billions was abruptly canceled due to allegations of breaking local gambling regulations, which set off a series of cancellations.

Due to similar problems, the Asian Poker Festival series, which was scheduled to take place in April at the Royal Poker Club in Hanoi, was also canceled.

The misunderstanding has increased due to the participation of the Crown Poker Club in a scandal. A mysterious 10% “”tax”” on sales exceeding VND10 million (US$403) caused players to voice concerns in March. In the end, it was discovered that the club had created the “tax” in order to fund its own operations.

There’s been a lot of uncertainty due to the postponement of four major tournaments. While some sources indicate that there is a major shift in the laws occurring, others highlight the increasing competitiveness among the poker rooms in Hanoi.

What is the future of poker going forward in Vietnam is unclear. Does the USOP Hanoi’s cancellation signal the end of an era, or is this merely a temporary setback? Whether the cards eventually tip in favor of Southeast Asian poker players is something that only time will tell.

Original Story by: Inside Asian Gaming