Can I use Prime Video in Vietnam?

Lights Out for Prime: The Shifting Landscape of Streaming in Vietnam

November 2023 marked a turning point for Vietnamese viewers as Amazon Prime Video quietly pulled the plug on its services in the country. This move, mirroring the earlier departure of several Disney channels, has left a noticeable gap in Vietnam’s once-thriving streaming market. While local and regional players still compete for viewers, the absence of these global giants raises questions about the future of entertainment consumption in Vietnam.

Prior to these withdrawals, Vietnamese audiences enjoyed a smorgasbord of streaming options. International platforms like Netflix remain, but the loss of Prime Video and Disney’s channels specifically impacts access to diverse family-friendly and sports content. This vacuum presents both challenges and opportunities for the industry.

Challenges:

• Local players facing increased pressure: Vietnamese streaming services now bear the weight of fulfilling viewers’ demand for premium content, particularly in genres left vacant by the departing platforms.
• Piracy concerns: The lack of legal avenues to access desired content could lead to a rise in online piracy, posing a challenge for both copyright holders and the government.
• Uncertainty for consumers: Vietnamese viewers are left wondering about the long-term implications. Will other international players follow suit? Will local platforms manage to fill the void?

Opportunities:

• Growth potential for local platforms: This presents a golden opportunity for Vietnamese streaming services to capitalize on the situation. By securing attractive content deals and focusing on a user-centric experience, they can attract new subscribers and solidify their position.
• Niche content development: The departure of major players opens up space for specialized platforms catering to specific demographics or interests, fostering a more diverse and competitive market.
• Increased focus on local productions: With less competition from international titles, Vietnamese productions could gain more prominence and investment, potentially leading to a new wave of creative content.

The withdrawal of major players from the Vietnamese streaming market signifies a period of uncertainty and transition. However, it also presents a unique opportunity for local players and content creators to step up and shape the future of entertainment in Vietnam. The coming years will reveal whether this shift leads to a more vibrant and diverse landscape or a regression towards limited choices for Vietnamese viewers.