Vietnam Proposes $2.16B Casino Complex to Boost Tourism and Economy

If approved, the project would become one of the most ambitious undertakings in Vietnam’s tourism and entertainment sectors, positioning the region as a major international destination and a potential host for global-scale events.

The proposed complex will span approximately 244 hectares in Vạn Yên Commune and is designed as a luxury integrated resort that merges hospitality, entertainment, and gaming services. The development is planned to unfold over three phases, with a maximum construction timeline of nine years. The project’s investment capital will be raised through a combination of investor equity and bank financing. The facility is projected to operate under a 70-year license, highlighting the long-term strategic vision behind the development.

A notable feature of the proposal is a pilot program that, if approved by the Prime Minister, would allow Vietnamese citizens to legally participate in casino gaming at the site. This would mark a significant policy shift, as local access to casinos in Vietnam has traditionally been heavily restricted. The Ministry of Finance emphasized that participation would be subject to strict adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks, as well as compliance with directives from the Politburo. The previous pilot program, which allowed limited domestic participation, concluded in December 2024.

The Quảng Ninh provincial government will be tasked with overseeing the selection of investors in accordance with legal standards for land use and capital investment. Strategically located within the newly established Vân Đồn special administrative zone, the casino project is expected to serve as a catalyst for regional economic growth. Its anticipated contributions include job creation, improved infrastructure, and increased public revenue.

Over its operational lifespan, the project is forecasted to contribute nearly VNĐ229 trillion (approximately $9.67 billion) to the state budget, primarily through corporate income taxes and value-added taxes—underscoring its potential as a major fiscal asset for the country.