​Vietnam has recently implemented Decree 147/2024/ND-CP, a comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at tightening control over the online gaming industry. This decree, effective from December 25, 2024, introduces several key measures to address concerns related to gambling, player protection, and the regulation of both domestic and international gaming services.​ For more information please visit god55

🚫 Ban on Casino-Style and Card-Based Games

A central provision of Decree 147 is the prohibition of casino-style and card-based games. These games are now ineligible for licensing due to their potential negative social impacts. The Ministry of Information and Communications emphasizes that this ban reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable players and preventing gambling-related harm .​

👶 Enhanced Protections for Minors

The decree introduces stringent measures to safeguard minors:​

  • Player Verification: All users must authenticate their identities using Vietnamese mobile phone numbers.​
  • Parental Supervision: Players under 16 are required to provide parental or guardian information during registration. Guardians are responsible for monitoring gameplay duration and content .​
  • Time Restrictions: Minors under 18 are limited to one game session of no more than 60 minutes and a daily maximum of 180 minutes .​

🛠 Streamlined Licensing Process

To simplify administrative procedures, Decree 147 delegates the authority for licensing G2, G3, and G4 games to local Departments of Information and Communications (DICs). This decentralization aims to accelerate the approval process while ensuring all games comply with Vietnamese regulatory standards .​

🌐 Regulation of Cross-Border and Unlicensed Games

The decree imposes stricter oversight on unlicensed and cross-border games:​

  • App Store Compliance: App stores are required to block or remove unapproved games and comply with Vietnam’s payment regulations
  • Foreign Operators: Companies offering games in Vietnam must establish local operations and adhere to the country’s regulations .

📱 Enforcement Against Unlicensed Platforms

Vietnam has mandated that platforms like Netflix cease advertising and distributing games in the country unless they obtain the necessary licenses. This move underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing its gaming regulations and ensuring fair competition in the market