Some of Vietnam’s casino operators may catch a break on their financial commitments after gaming revenue and contributions to state coffers surged higher.

Figures released this week by Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance show the country’s eight operational casinos generated revenue of VND2.5t (US$107.4m) in 2019, from which the casinos contributed VND1.34t to the state budget.

The 2019 revenue figure was 60% higher than 2018’s VND1.56t, which was in turn 31% higher than 2017, the first year that Vietnam approved a decree allowing a trial of lifting the prohibition on local residents gambling in casinos.  

The Corona Resort & Casino on the island of Phu Quoc in Kieng Giang province was selected to serve as the locals gaming guinea pig starting in January 2019. The Corona attracted a total of 105,200 guests last year, of which 47,400 (45%) were Vietnamese citizens. The Corona’s 2019 revenue hit VND1.43t, giving it nearly 60% of the overall market.