The Vietnamese Government has issued a decree imposing steeper penalties for betting violations. Operators could face up to VND200m ($7,733) in fines, whereas individuals could pay up to VND100m.
Decree 391/2026/ND-CP will come into effect on December 5. It stipulates a total of 51 different groups of violations; 17 of which related to betting, 15 to casinos, another 15 for electronic games with prizes for foreigners and 4 groups related to anti-money laundering operations.
Illegal gambling operations will be fined up to VND200m; however, individuals could also face harsher fines. Accounts using fake names will be fined between VND130m and VND150m.
The decree also establishes violations related to management regulations. If a casino is found to not be following mandated operating hours, it could be fined between VND40m and VND200m.
In August, casino operators were among several large businesses making significant tax contributions. Two major casino operators in Da Nang, specifically, paid more than VND1.2tn in taxes.
The figures come as the region has seen an increase in tourism, supported by better services and investments. In a nine-month period, Da Nang welcomed 15.86 million overnight visitors.
Despite the gambling industry contributing to the region's growth, earlier this year, Chinese authorities urged citizens residing or visiting Vietnam to refrain from participating in any form of gambling. The warning stems from reported arrests of several Chinese nationals for gambling activities.
Moreover, the Chinese Government states that cross-border gambling violates Chinese criminal law, even if the activity takes place beyond its jurisdiction.
In 2025, fines for gaming-related violations reached VND557m
