Van Don district was among the country’s would-be three special economic zones (SEZs) in a controversial draft law on SEZs that was withdrawn last year.

Phu Quoc is the only coastal economic zone that is applicable to the law.

Van Don district is seen as a gateway to international trade and capable of competing with other cities globally in terms of investment-friendliness or tourism.

The Vietnamese finance ministry expected an easing in conditions for casino projects would attract more investors in the field.

Population in Phu Quoc likely triples in 2030, resulting high demand for hospitality industry.