Vietnam media news covers a sector of the local economy that is growing rapidly despite a somewhat challenging regulatory environment. This section monitors those regulations as well as over-the-top services, sports, advertising, social media, and film and television industry developments.

Vietnam box office revenue reaches new high in 2024

the-shiv January 4, 2025

On a side note, Vietnam has been actively pushing for more films to be produced in the country, particularly foreign films as a means to upskill its own creative workforce. It does, however, impose a number of restrictions on film production that can make it difficult for both domestic and foreign filmmakers alike to produce good quality storytelling in Vietnam.

Netflix blocked from showing unscripted television shows in Vietnam

the-shiv December 25, 2024

Of note, it had first been reported that it had been barred from showing television programs altogether but this appears to have been incorrect. The narrative that is circulating now, according to VN Express, is that companies streaming television programs need a local office whereas streaming sites that show only films do not.

Vietnam’s Creative Industries: Overview 2024

the-shiv December 16, 2024

Vietnam’s creative industries are not particularly well developed. Whereas creative industries make up about 5 to 10 percent of global GDP, in Vietnam that figure is only estimated to be about 3 percent. This is for a number of reasons, many of which foreign creatives and investors in creative industries should be aware of when doing business in Vietnam. It’s in this context, that this article runs through a brief overview of how the industry operates.

Arts and entertainment sector gains FDI boost with new project in October

the-shiv November 26, 2024

Year-to-date, the sector has attracted six projects, bringing the total registered capital to US$12.48 million. Although investment levels in arts and entertainment remain relatively modest compared to other sectors, this October investment indicates some interest in Vietnam’s cultural and recreational industries.

Vietnam’s CPI for culture, entertainment, and tourism shows moderate annual increase

the-shiv November 17, 2024

Year-to-date, the CPI for culture, entertainment, and tourism rose by 1.91 percent from January to October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This steady growth is likely supported by rising consumer interest in leisure activities and tourism within Vietnam.

Vietnam gamers restricted from buying, selling virtual assets under new internet Decree

the-shiv November 15, 2024

There are also a number of other requirements for gaming providers outlined in the Decree from signage requirements in gaming centres to warnings placed in-game. For example, “Playing more than 180 minutes a day will have a negative impact on health” is required to be displayed in-game every thirty minutes….

New Vietnam Decree adds enhanced digital media regulations, ruffles feathers

the-shiv November 14, 2024

Of note, the new Decree has sparked interest from abroad on the grounds that it will largely apply to cross border service providers and looks a lot like it is designed to crack down on anti-government speech, and this is probably true. However, it’s also worth noting that social media has become central to a huge amount of trade in Vietnam…

Vietnam floats tax breaks for press agencies to boost struggling media industry

the-shiv November 14, 2024

Mainstream news outlets in Vietnam have struggled in recent years on the back of greater proliferation of social media and subsequently a diversion of advertising funds to this new medium. It mentions that the revenue of some major news outlets has fallen considerably…

Media Relations in Vietnam: Lessons from VinFast

Mark Barnes October 29, 2024

How VinFast has managed its brand image and narrative offers some interesting insights into the company and, by extension, how media relations work in Vietnam…

Gaming venues slated for more surprise inspections in southern Vietnam province

the-shiv October 26, 2024

Of note, gambling in Vietnam is illegal but that doesn’t stop a sizable amount of betting occurring. Recognising that this might be a problem, or perhaps that Vietnam is missing out on millions of dollars worth of tax revenue, there have been recent moves to try to legalise the practice…

Vietnam Golf Industry: Overview 2024

the-shiv October 15, 2024

Vietnam’s golf industry has experienced significant growth, emerging as a key player in Asia’s golfing scene. The country’s diverse landscapes have attracted international interest, leading to the development of numerous world-class golf courses designed by renowned architects like Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. Key golfing hubs include Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and coastal regions like Nha Trang and Cam Ranh….

‘Destination Vietnam’ campaign kicks into gear with Directors Guild of America event

the-shiv October 8, 2024

Of note, however, is that the business environment in Vietnam has changed significantly in terms of regulatory oversight and censorship, both of which have proven key obstacles for foreign studios looking to make films in Vietnam…

Australia’s Timezone video game arcade chain opens 13th Vietnam location

the-shiv September 28, 2024

Video games are played widely around Vietnam. There are cyber cafes in the big cities on just about every corner. These are generally long rooms chock full of computers and almost always filled with young Vietnamese playing a broad range of video games. With this in mind, Vietnam’s consumers are well primed for more classic video game experiences like video game arcades.

Vietnam’s Music Industry: Overview 2024

the-shiv September 27, 2024

The music industry in Vietnam has undergone significant changes over the past few decades, evolving from traditional genres to a dynamic blend of contemporary sounds. Historically rooted in folk music and revolutionary songs, the industry now embraces a diverse range of styles, including pop, hip-hop, and electronic music.

Vietnam’s Publishing Industry: Overview 2024

the-shiv September 27, 2024

The future of publishing in Vietnam is poised for significant transformation as digital technology and changing consumer preferences reshape the industry. While traditional print publishing remains dominant, there is a growing shift towards digital formats, driven by increased internet accessibility and the popularity of ebooks and audiobooks. However, regulatory challenges and content restrictions may continue to influence the development and diversification of publishing products.

Vietnam’s Advertising industry: Overview 2024

the-shiv September 27, 2024

The future of Vietnam’s advertising industry is set to be shaped by several key trends and developments. Digital transformation will continue to play a crucial role, with online advertising expected to lead the market due to the rising penetration of smartphones and increased internet usage. This shift is driven by the growing influence of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, which are becoming primary channels for brands to connect with consumers.

Why More Foreign Films Aren’t Made in Vietnam

Mark Barnes September 24, 2024

Vietnam’s Ministry of Tourism, Sports, and Culture is headed to Hollywood to pitch Vietnam as a film set in the hopes that Vietnam’s appearance on the silver screen will boost tourist numbers. It will, however, likely take more than simply raising awareness to see more films made in Vietnam with censorship weighing heavily on foreign film productions.

Vietnam’s Film Industry: Overview 2024

the-shiv September 22, 2024

Vietnam’s film industry is still in a developing phase, characterised by a mix of challenges and opportunities. Historically, the industry has been dominated by government-produced films with limited private investment. While there has been a slow but steady increase in the number of commercially-oriented films, the market remains relatively small compared to other Southeast Asian countries.

Vietnam’s Law on Cinema: Overview 2024

the-shiv September 21, 2024

Vietnam’s Law on Cinema 2022 regulates film production, distribution, and exhibition. This is an important piece of legislation for businesses operating in creative industries as it contains a number of key regulations unique to Vietnam.

Vietnam’s Fitness Industry: Overview 2024

the-shiv September 19, 2024

Vietnam’s health and fitness industry is growing rapidly, driven by rising income levels, increasing health awareness, and urbanisation. Gyms and fitness centres, both large international chains and local establishments, are expanding to meet this demand.