Vietnam has introduced Decree 147/2024/ND-CP, a comprehensive set of regulations aimed at tightening control over the online gaming sector while ensuring compliance for domestic and international service providers. The decree, which takes effect on December 25, 2024, prohibits casino-style and card-based games, introduces stricter player verification protocols, and streamlines licensing processes for game developers.
One of the key aspects of Decree 147 is the outright ban on casino-like games and card-based games. These measures are designed to curb potential negative social impacts and promote responsible gaming. The Department of Broadcasting, Television, and Electronic Information emphasized that this prohibition reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable players and preventing gambling-related harm.
Le Thu Ha, Head of the Electronic Information Department, cited by VietNamNet, noted the importance of the new rules in limiting gaming time for minors. Players under 18 will now face stringent restrictions, with a maximum of 60 minutes per session and a daily cap of three hours.
Streamlined Licensing and Player Verification
To simplify administrative procedures, Decree 147 delegates the authority for licensing G2, G3, and G4 games to local Departments of Information and Communications (DICs). This move is expected to accelerate the approval process while ensuring that all games meet Vietnam’s regulatory standards. As of November 15, 2024, 192 certifications have been issued for G2, G3, and G4 games, covering over 16,000 titles.
In addition to faster licensing, the decree mandates player verification using Vietnamese mobile phone numbers. Players under 16 must provide parental or guardian information during registration, with guardians required to monitor both gameplay duration and content. These measures aim to protect children from excessive gaming and exposure to inappropriate material.
Nguyen Thi Thanh Huyen, Deputy Director of the Department of Broadcasting, Television, and Electronic Information, highlighted the challenges of monitoring gaming activity across multiple platforms. She advised companies to ensure compliance within their ecosystems and to batch applications for efficient processing.
Enhanced Measures for Cross-Border and Unlicensed Games
Decree 147 introduces stricter oversight for cross-border gaming providers. Companies offering games in Vietnam are required to establish local operations and adhere to the country’s payment regulations. Unapproved games must be removed from app stores, and publishers are mandated to obtain the necessary licenses to avoid fines or operational bans.
The regulation also requires social networks and app stores with over 100,000 monthly visits from Vietnam to comply with the decree. These platforms must notify the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information (ABEI) about their contact details and adhere to content monitoring guidelines. Violations may result in severe penalties, including fines and restrictions on operations.
Addressing Broader Internet and Gaming Oversight
Spanning over 200 pages, the new regulation also covers social networks, telecom application services, and content moderation. It imposes specific requirements for onshore and offshore providers, including enhanced scrutiny of data management and user verification systems, according to Vietnam Briefing.
Social network providers with significant traffic are required to obtain formal licenses, while livestream services must meet additional conditions. For game content, a new rating system has been introduced, including a 16+ category to ensure suitability for younger users.
