Decree 147, which comes into effect on Christmas day, December 25, will prohibit online casino-like games in Vietnam.
Vietnam is set to introduce a new regulation that tightens its grip on online gaming and card-based games.
Decree 147, which comes into effect on Christmas day, December 25, will prohibit casino-like games, while streamlining processes for online gaming service providers, as reported by Asia Gaming Brief.
The decree also imposes stricter regulations on unlicensed and cross-border games, requiring clear labeling for approved titles. Cross-border app stores must either block or remove unapproved games and adhere to Vietnam's payment regulations, Vietnamnet reports.
Furthermore, foreign entities offering gaming services in Vietnam, including cross-border platforms, must establish local operations and comply with Vietnamese law.
To safeguard minors online, gaming companies, internet service providers, and telecommunications firms must implement stricter controls. Minors under 18 years old will be limited to one gaming session of no more than 60 minutes per day, with a total daily limit of 180 minutes.
Vietnam's casino industry has experienced significant growth since the 2017 decree that legalized its operations. While this sector has made substantial contributions to the national economy, experts contend that certain gaps in the existing legal framework may impede long-term growth and effective management.
A study conducted by Nguyen Thanh Minh Chanh and Vuong Thi Thu Thuy from the Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City's Faculty of Law, which was also reported by Asia Gaming Brief, highlights several issues, such as unclear investment registration requirements, ambiguous licensing conditions, and inconsistent operational regulations. These inconsistencies create challenges for both businesses and regulators.
The study believes that address these challenges, a comprehensive legal framework for casino activities is necessary. This framework should include clear development strategies, comprehensive planning, and effective resolution mechanisms for conflicting legal provisions. By implementing these measures, Vietnam can ensure that its casino industry continues to contribute positively to the nation's economic growth.
Controversies beyond online gambling restrictions
Beyond online gambling, the impending law is receiving scrutiny, as cross-border and domestic social media platforms have to authenticate its user accounts through their mobile phone numbers, which the government argues can prevent scams.
“Mandatory authentication of users’ social media accounts via mobile phone numbers is a measure to prevent anonymous people from scamming, spreading fake news, or committing other illegal acts,” Le Quang Tu Do, director of the Department of Radio, Television, and Electronic Information, under the Ministry of Information and Communications, said as reported by tuoitrenews, an English daily based in Vietnam.
Children younger than 16 should have their social media accounts registered through their parents as well.
Vietnam.NET reported that linking accounts to verified information would encourage users to be more mindful of their online behavior. This accountability, he explained, would deter the spread of misinformation, fake news, and harmful content often associated with anonymous or fabricated accounts.
"By requiring account authentication, we aim to foster a more responsible online community," Vu Ngoc Son, NCS Technology Director, stated.
"Users will be more hesitant to share inaccurate or unverified information, knowing that they could face legal and social consequences."
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