Hanoi Lotto is a lottery game in which participants select numbers to win a prize, purchasing tickets at various outlets – from online and mobile apps, to physical stores – in order to take part. Results are announced daily via television or on the internet and prizes range from cash or goods valued from several thousand VND up to over 10 billion VND – raising millions each day that are then invested back into improving public services and driving economic development forward.
Lottery has a rich tradition in Vietnam and millions of people play it nationwide. While the game can raise funds for charities or families in need, lottery can also lead to gambling addiction and financial distress for its participants. Although measures have been taken by government authorities to curb this tendency, lottery addiction remains an issue today.
To address these problems, the ministry has established a helpline for those needing help and initiated an educational campaign about the dangers associated with playing lottery.
However, given the limited resources of the ministry to assist each addict individually, it is vital that anyone watching out for any signs of lottery addiction takes immediate steps if necessary to seek professional help immediately.
Although many Vietnamese consider lottery to be gambling, playing is actually legal and regulated by the government – winnings from which are subject to taxes – making the lotto an invaluable source of state revenues while providing relief to vulnerable groups within society. Furthermore, lottery is one of few means of support available to poor people who do not benefit from social security systems in Vietnam.
Phuoc and his mother have been selling lottery tickets on the streets for more than 10 years, netting an average commission of VND1,100 per ticket sold – enough for basic meals and rent payments. While lottery companies boast of sales rates between 98-100%, it is those like Phuoc who bear all of the risks involved with running such businesses.
Lotteries are a type of raffle where participants select from 1 to 45 numbered tickets in order to win a prize. Tickets with preprinted numbers make it easier for participants to select their numbers; different provinces typically issue tickets specific to them so if you want to participate, be sure to ask the peddler whether he/she carries any from your region.
Since the introduction of a lottery product with a prize pool worth VND12 billion, traditional lottery companies have experienced a decrease in sales. One such establishment is Ms Hoa’s shop on Dien Bien Phu Street in District 5 of HCM City; both its revenue and profits declined 19% year-on-year compared with 2021 figures.
