Vietnam has secured a major spot among the top five Southeast Asian countries with the highest number of eSports followers, according to the . The report, jointly produced by the Vietnam Recreational eSports Association () and OTA Network, focuses on the nation’s growing prominence in the eSports landscape.

In 2023, 16% of Vietnam’s population followed eSports tournaments, placing the country on par with regional leaders like Indonesia and Taiwan. Moreover, 28.7% of the population, or 28.2 million people, actively participated in eSports, showcasing the sector’s widespread appeal.

Rising revenue

Vietnam’s eSports industry generated $5.78 million in revenue in 2023, an 11.15% increase from the previous year. With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.95%, the market size is expected to reach $8.73 million by 2027.

Sponsorship and advertising were the primary revenue drivers, contributing $1.7 million in 2023. Broadcasting rights accounted for over $1.4 million, marking a 31.7% increase from 2022. Major brands like Samsung, Hảo Hảo, and Yomost played a key role in boosting the sector through sponsorships of tournaments such as the PUBG Mobile Community League and the Arena of Glory.

The total prize pool for domestic eSports competitions in 2023 exceeded VNĐ41 billion ($1.6 million), up 32.26% from 2022. Among popular titles, Liên Quân Mobile led the way with a prize pool surpassing VNĐ12 billion ($473,000).

Technological innovations

The adoption of virtual stage technology has transformed Vietnam’s eSports scene. The report stated, “During the COVID-19 pandemic, many eSports tournaments had to shift to online formats, which led to the increased use of virtual stage technology. This innovative solution proved to be highly effective, allowing producers to create engaging effects and performances. With virtual staging, they could design immersive online tournament environments, showcase information, statistics, and scoreboards, thus enhancing the overall professional image of the events.”

Phạm Xuân Thủy, CEO of , said, “The reason virtual stages are increasingly being adopted in eSports is that not all tournaments are lavishly funded and organised in person. Tournaments that do not require large scales, such as qualifiers, semi-finals, or major tournaments not held with live audiences, will be organised online and employ virtual stages.”

Vietnam’s role in Southeast Asia’s eSports growth

The Southeast Asian electronic entertainment market is projected to reach $14.8 billion by 2024 and grow to $14.93 billion by 2029, with a CAGR of 0.19%. Vietnam stands out in this vibrant market, driven by its youthful, tech-savvy population and supportive government policies.

With a population of approximately 100 million, Vietnam ranks third in Southeast Asia by size, after Indonesia and the Philippines. About one-third of its population is involved in eSports, making it a key player in the region.

The Vietnamese government has actively supported eSports as part of the country’s digital economy strategy. , which sets standards for high-performance athletes in eSports, reflects the government’s commitment to developing the sector. Vietnam’s inclusion of eSports in the for three consecutive editions underscores this support.

The report further explained, “Between 2022 and 2023, Vietnam’s eSports tournament system experienced remarkable growth, with seasons marked by improvements in quality, scale, and prize pools. According to Esports Earnings, the total prize pool for domestic eSports tournaments in 2023 exceeded 41 billion VND, a 32.26% increase from 2022. Among these, Arena of Valor emerged as the most popular and heavily invested title, with a prize pool surpassing 12 billion VND.”

Vietnam’s eSports athletes have earned international acclaim. In 2022, they secured victories in the PUBG Mobile Championship at the Global Esports Games, the Arena of Valor International Championship (AIC), and the FIFAe Continental Cup. At SEA Games 31, Vietnam topped the rankings, while at SEA Games 32, they placed fourth.

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