Hanoi Lotto has become an integral part of Vietnamese culture, drawing players from all walks of life – students to employees and the elderly alike. Not just for cash prizes either; many use lottery numbers based on birthdays, lucky digits or dreams to bond with family and friends while simultaneously strengthening ties within communities. Unfortunately though, lottery can lead to addiction leading to financial issues for individuals as well as draw people away from legitimate gaming and cause the government revenue losses due to illegal operators drawing away people away from official games altogether.
Southern lottery companies collected over VND22 trillion (US$1.1 billion) during the first six months of this year and helped support elderly, disabled, and poor children through lottery sales. Unfortunately, though, this success didn’t extend to all lottery vendors who use lottery sales as an avenue for survival in an unforgiving country.
Phuoc, a 10-year-old boy, does not attend school, instead relying on lottery ticket sales profits for survival. They earn around VND1,100 per ticket sold – enough for basic food and rent expenses while lacking contracts or future guarantees that would otherwise provide them a source of livelihood.
Phuoc’s luck changed recently when he picked the winning numbers and won VND5 million as grand prize. When telling Chao Saephan of this good news, Chao told him they are now billionaires! However, though feeling wealthy now, Vo is concerned someone might steal his funds.
Lotteries used to only sell their products at physical locations; now, lottery companies are going online with mobile apps available on their official websites allowing players to place bets for future draws from home or the office, and feature chat functionality so customers can interact directly with customer support representatives in real time.
Vietlott and Xo so kien thiet are currently two major state-owned lottery companies operating across all cities and provinces in Vietnam. While one is supported by Malaysian Berjaya, while the latter has Vietnamese company backing invested by local investors as part of a joint venture partnership agreement with another Vietnamese state-owned entity. Both businesses are expected to expand this year.
When winning a jackpot in Vietnam, you have the option of exchanging it for foreign currency, but it’s wise to consult with authorities first before doing so. If you are unable to travel directly yourself and receive your prize yourself, an authorized representative may collect on your behalf otherwise your prize could be forfeited. It is also vitally important that a proof of identity be presented prior to collecting on any prize – this includes both passport and official confirmation letter from the lottery business enterprise; with each signed by winner and clearly depicted photograph; before proceeding any exchange or claim can take place.