written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
05 Sep 2024
Journalist, Editorial Department
In Thailand, public hearings were held online regarding a bill to establish a large-scale entertainment and gaming complex. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat reported that 80% of participants supported the initiative.
While the hearings focused on the construction of a single mega-complex featuring a casino, they effectively opened the door for the legalization of the land-based gambling industry in the country. Currently, Thailand prohibits most forms of gambling, with the exception of the official lottery and horse racing bets.
"We will now revise the bill based on the feedback received and discuss it with our partners before submitting it to the Cabinet for approval," Julapun Amornvivat told reporters.
Several Thai governments have previously attempted to legalize gambling. However, despite the clear benefits such as job creation and additional state revenue, these efforts have not been successful.
One of the earliest advocates for a legal gambling industry was influential billionaire and former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Since August, his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has held the position of Prime Minister. Her ally and predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, has also been a strong proponent of legalizing land-based casinos.
In Southeast Asia, gambling establishments are legal in Cambodia, Singapore, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Some casinos are located near the Thai border, prompting many residents to visit them on weekends. Representatives from the ruling party, Pheu Thai, argue that the country is lagging behind its neighbors in developing the gambling industry.
It is worth noting that Thailand plans to finalize its casino resort legislation in the fourth quarter of 2024.
