Vietnam Initiates a 5-Year Pilot Phase for International Football Betting

Updated Betting Limit

Under the current rules, individuals can stake up to VND 1 million on each of approximately 10–15 categories per match.

Local punters can place bets on:

• the final result of the event;
• the total number of goals or cards;
• the first scorer or team.

In practice, this allows multiple wagers that often exceed intended limits. The new plan introduces a single daily cap of VND 10 million (approximately $378) per user. Officials say this change reflects the country’s rising income levels, which have almost doubled to $4,700 per person since 2016.

While the ceiling is higher, the Ministry stresses that it is designed to limit excessive spending. The minimum stake remains unchanged at VND 10,000 (approximately $0.38).

Stricter Participation Rules

The draft also raises eligibility standards to ensure responsible behaviour.

Each bettor must:

• be at least 21 years old;
• have full civil capacity;
• open and verify an account with an approved sportsbook.

All transactions, including deposits and withdrawals, must go through this registered account to confirm identity and prevent misuse.

Only FIFA-recognised matches or official electronic football tournaments would qualify. These usually include 4–8 international events each year, lasting from 10 to 30 days. Analysts warn that the limited scope and high operational costs may reduce potential profits for sportsbooks.

Business and Advertising Conditions

Licensed sportsbooks must hold at least VND 1 trillion ($37.8 million) in capital. They may select categories such as match outcomes, player performance, or rankings, within state-approved limits.

Companies must also obtain official data and image rights from FIFA or its partners, but not for domestic matches under the Vietnam Football Federation.

The new proposal allows internet-based participation to address time-zone differences during global events. Operators could set their own start and stop times for wagers. Advertising limits would also ease, allowing logos and promotional content on company websites.

Pilot Implementation

Given the social sensitivity of wagering, only one sportsbook would initially be permitted to offer international football services for the first 5 years. This trial will allow the government to monitor performance, assess potential risks, and refine control mechanisms before any expansion.

The initiative follows intensified efforts to combat unlicensed football betting, with police dismantling large-scale networks worth billions of dollars. A transparent and monitored system is expected to reduce illegal operations, safeguard consumers, and contribute to tax revenue.

If the 5-year trial is successful, it could pave the way for a stable, transparent and controlled form of gambling activity that would benefit both citizens and the national economy. This approach would also create global recognition of Vietnam’s ability to carefully and precisely regulate emerging industries.