Hanoi bets on new gaming laws
HANOI – Vietnamese government authorities are drafting new gambling proposals in an attempt to better manage gambling activities and to increase government funds.
Since 2003, authorities have allowed some four-star and five-star hotels to operate electronic gambling machines for foreign passport holders and overseas Vietnamese.
They have also licensed four casinos in Hai Phong City, Quang Ninh Province, and Lao Cai Province.
In May last year police launched an investigation into organised gaming after locals were caught gambling in hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau.
Police detained 217 people and hotel staff in the raids on hotels that included the Duxton Hotel and the Equatorial Hotel.
Locals were caught playing slot machines meant for foreigners and overseas Vietnamese.
Presently, revenue from the current state-run lottery service makes up 2.4 percent of Vietnam’s GDP.
Elsewhere in Vietnam, the Vinpearl Trade Joint Stock Company has dumped a brand name leasing contract with the Accor Group. Vinpearl will establish its own brand.
The existing five-star Sofitel Vinpearl Resort and Spa will be renamed the Vinpearl Resort and Spa and be managed by Vinpearl Hotel Management Company.
Ian Jarrett
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