Vietnam is one of the most dynamically emerging countries in Southeast Asia and in the world. With the high rate of economic growth (average about 6–8% per year), the energy demand of Vietnam in the future will be huge. Vietnam’s challenge for the upcoming period is to ensure energy resources for economic development, associated with sustainable development, environmental protection and to combat climate change. Therefore, selection and use of appropriate and effective energy is one of the important factors. In addition, the development of clean energy sources is essential in the future. In the present context, the developments of renewable energy sources and nuclear energy have various restrictions, while traditional energy such as coal and oil is being exhausted. Consequently, unconventional gas development can be a good solution for Vietnam in the future. In addition, the replacement of traditional energy sources such as coal and oil products plays a role in the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, especially in the power sector. This article will analyse the opportunities and challenges impacting upon the development of unconventional gas in Vietnam.