Karaoke clubs, discotheques to get later closing time

Karaoke clubs on Hanoi's Den Lu Street.

Currently, karaoke clubs and discotheques must be closed from midnight to eight o’clock in the morning, except those belonging to four-star tourism accommodations and high-class tourism accommodations. The change will mean most karaoke establishments can stay open later, while clubs at high-end hotels and resorts will still receive different treatment.

According to the culture ministry, it is necessary to change regulations on managing karaoke clubs and discotheques to fix shortcomings of the current policies that have been in effect since 2010. The ministry is currently seeking public comments on the new proposal.

The changes are also expected to help implement the State and Government’s policy on administrative reform, creating a favourable business climate for enterprises.

The ministry has proposed to remove some requirements and responsibilities of individuals and organisations that provide karaoke club services.

Those who want to provide the service will no longer apply for karaoke business licences. The licence will be replaced by an announcement paper that proves the individuals and organisations are allowed to provide the karaoke service; gaining administrative approval to issue the announcement paper is much less arduous than earning an official licence. Discotheques, however, will still be required to obtain a licence before they can open.

Government bodies will conduct inspections during the karaoke clubs’ operation to ensure they meet all standards.

Karaoke clubs can only use songs that are legally allowed to be circulated; images printed on music disks must align with Vietnamese culture, morality and traditional customs.

Staff working at karaoke clubs must wear suitable clothes and name tags with their photos.

Both karaoke establishments and discotheques are required to comply with regulations including those on environment protection, food safety, copyrights, labour safety and social crime prevention and control.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is open for public comments and contributions on the new policy until November 24, 2018.