Vietnam’s gaming market is worth up to US$1.2bn, according to a new study by Union Gaming.

However, the report also said that the south-east Asian nation’s gaming industry is suffering from “less than optimal geographic distribution and less than optimal regulations.”

The study, conducted by Macau-based analyst Grant Govertsen, surveyed around 30 gaming facilities in Vietnam comprising 400 gaming tables and 3,000 slot machines, ranging from small slots parlours to the luxury integrated resort The Grand Ho Tram located on the east coast outside of Ho Chi Minh City.

“While the government does not disseminate GGR data, we can approximate via the three publicly traded companies with exposure to Vietnam, as well as via conversations we’ve had with operators in the market,” Govertsen said.

The study also noted that, despite reports of the government easing restrictions on gaming operations this year, including the announcement of a three-year trial in which locals will be allowed to gamble in two Vietnamese casinos, the realty is somewhat more muted.