Aimed at transforming its tourism and entertainment landscape, Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has formally approved the construction of a colossal casino and integrated resort project in the Van Don Economic Zone.
The project, valued at over $2 billion, is set to unfold over the next nine years and is being touted as one of the country’s most ambitious tourism infrastructure investments to date.
The approval, which came through on June 27, grants a 70-year development license and covers more than 244 hectares of land in Van Yen commune, including dedicated zones for a luxury casino, five-star hotels, villas, parks, and water features.
A Measured Approach with Environmental Safeguards
The project will roll out in three phases over nine years, underscoring Vietnam’s strategy of sustainable development. While 182 hectares will be developed for tourism and entertainment facilities, the remaining 62 hectares—comprising protected forest and production land—will remain untouched in accordance with Vietnam’s forestry laws.
In addition, the local economic zone’s management board has been directed to reserve land for social infrastructure and community services, ensuring that the expansion doesn’t compromise livability for either tourists or residents.
Economic Impact and Legal Hurdles Ahead
Once fully operational, the resort is expected to generate $326 million in annual revenue, creating 6,000 jobs and contributing over $9.6 billion to state revenue during its licensed period. However, a key point of contention remains: Vietnamese citizens are still not allowed to gamble at the casino. While discussions are ongoing within the Ministry of Finance to expand the pilot program allowing local participation, no official decision has been made.
Government oversight will be critical moving forward. Authorities in Quang Ninh are tasked with selecting qualified investors through a bidding process and ensuring transparency in capital contributions.
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