Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc, the only venue in Vietnam authorized to allow local citizens to gamble, has announced the temporary suspension of its locals-play program. Starting January 1, 2025, Vietnamese residents will no longer be permitted to access the casino, pending further government decisions regarding the program’s future. The move is in response to amendments under Decree 145/2024/NĐ-CP, which modifies provisions of the original 2017 decree that enabled the pilot program.
In an official statement cited by GGRAsia, Corona Resort said the suspension ensures compliance with updated legal requirements while allowing the property to prepare for any future policy shifts. The casino emphasized that its international clientele remains unaffected, with foreign patrons continuing to enjoy uninterrupted access to gaming services.
Background on the Locals-Play Initiative
Vietnam’s pilot program, introduced through Decree 03/2017/NĐ-CP, was designed to test the feasibility of allowing economically qualified Vietnamese citizens to gamble in domestic casinos. When launched in 2019, the program was seen as a bold step to retain gaming revenues within the country, which had previously flowed to international markets due to strict gambling restrictions.
Corona Resort, situated on Phu Quoc Island, became the sole venue authorized under this program, offering a regulated environment where locals meeting financial requirements could participate in casino gaming. The initial trial period was set for three years but was extended multiple times, with the most recent extension slated to expire at the end of 2024.
Recent government deliberations, including amendments made in November 2024, signaled a reassessment of the pilot scheme’s efficacy and impact. These changes ultimately led to the suspension announcement, which will remain in place until the national government determines whether to continue or conclude the program.
Preservation of Local Customer Benefits
Although Vietnamese citizens will lose access to casino gaming at Corona Resort, the management has assured its local patrons that their accumulated benefits and privileges will remain intact. “During this suspension period, we are committed to preserving all benefits for Vietnamese customers in accordance with our current business policies,” the resort stated.
Additionally, the casino pledged to keep its customers and business partners informed of any regulatory updates. “We will provide timely updates… as soon as new regulations are issued by the government,” the resort emphasized.
Unaffected International Operations
While local access to the casino is paused, Corona Resort clarified that its operations for international visitors will proceed as usual. Foreign customers can continue to enjoy the property’s gaming services, which the resort describes as “unparalleled and world-class.”
The resort also highlighted its pioneering role as the first venue in Vietnam authorized to host local players, underscoring its pride in creating a premium experience for all guests. Despite the suspension, Corona Resort expressed optimism about resuming services for Vietnamese citizens in the future, contingent upon government decisions.
Future of Casino Gaming in Vietnam
The outcome of the pilot program will likely influence Vietnam’s broader gambling policies. Initially hailed as a landmark initiative, the program provided a controlled setting for locals to gamble while generating significant economic benefits. However, its long-term viability remains uncertain, as the government weighs the social and regulatory implications.
As the pilot program’s deadline approaches, industry stakeholders await clarity on the government’s final decision. Whether the scheme is extended, modified, or permanently discontinued will shape the future of casino operations in Vietnam. For now, Corona Resort’s temporary suspension marks a pivotal moment in the country’s evolving approach to gaming regulation.
