Authorities ordered game publishers to fix incorrect age ratings on app stores.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports issued this directive.

Companies must review and fix any age rating discrepancies. Games for 18+ must not be shown as 12+ or 13+.

This move aims to strengthen oversight of online gaming and protect children and students.

Age ratings must match those approved by the authority, as stated in Decree No. 147/2024/ND-CP.

Publishers must correct incorrect age classifications within 15 days.

Failure to comply may result in the game being stopped and its approval revoked.

Stricter controls are in place for players under 18.

Game companies must strengthen measures to manage underage players.

Publishers must verify player identities and enforce limits for users under 18.

Minors can play a maximum of 60 minutes per day per game, with a total limit of 180 minutes.

These measures aim to minimize the impact of excessive gaming on children's health and education.

The directive reiterates the prohibition on designing game features for real-world value.

Publishers cannot allow virtual items to be exchanged for cash or physical goods.

Companies must review their procedures to ensure compliance with Vietnamese regulations.

Publishers must submit compliance reports every six months.

The department reminded publishers of this requirement.