Vietnam considers single-operator football betting pilot

A five-year scheme would raise daily caps and tighten oversight.

Vietnam.- The Ministry of Finance has proposed a five-year pilot programme that would allow a single licensed operator to offer international football betting. The draft decree, which would replace Decree 06/2017/NĐ-CP, outlines strict oversight mechanisms and new eligibility requirements along with higher betting limits.

Under the plan, players would have a daily betting cap of VND10m (US$380), a tenfold increase from the current limit of VND1m (US$38). The minimum stake would remain at VND10,000 (US$0.38), while eligibility would be restricted to individuals aged 21 and above with full civil capacity. All wagers would have to be placed via verified accounts linked to banks or e-wallets.

Only matches sanctioned by FIFA and its member associations would be covered, excluding domestic fixtures and electronic football tournaments. Advertising rules would be eased, permitting licensed businesses to display logos and promotional materials on their websites.

Officials say the proposal reflects Vietnam’s rising income levels and the need to channel demand for football betting into a regulated market. They say the model could generate tax revenue and curb unregulated offshore gambling, while critics caution against social risks and stress the importance of safeguards.

At the end of the five-year trial, the government will evaluate whether to continue, expand or scrap the initiative. The proposal comes amid broader reforms to Vietnam’s gambling landscape, including expanded local access to land-based casinos in Phu Quoc and Ho Tram.

A five-year scheme would raise daily caps and tighten oversight. Vietnam.- The Ministry of Finance has proposed a five-year pilot programme that would allow a single licensed operator to offer…