The Star Vegas casino in Poipet has been significantly impacted by recent border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.
Visitor numbers at the resort have plummeted since the Thai government introduced restrictions on border crossings, with an immediate consequence for Star Vegas, which straddles the demarcation line nearby.
The Poipet venue draws a sizeable chunk of its customer base from Thailand, where casino gambling is illegal, but that situation could be about to change.
Last month, on May 28, a brief military clash between the nations resulted in measures being taken, including restrictions on border crossing opening times, while Thai nationals have been forbidden from entering Cambodia at that point for non-essential reasons.
The stop in the flow of leisure tourism for casino and gambling purposes has had an acute effect on Star Casino, as indicated in an official release from the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).
Star Vegas casino owner Donaco International has detailed a 62% drop in the average daily headcount, compounded by a 42% slide in hotel occupancy at Poipet. The company has briefed that the issue is most certainly going to impact the venue’s performance in June, with potential for ongoing harm if the impasse is not resolved.
Free movement of people and money is not guaranteed
While both governments have expressed a commitment to resolving the border tensions, bilateral talks held on June 14, 2025, did not ultimately result in a resolution,” said Donaco.
“While the current situation is relatively calm, underlying disputes persist, and the Thai government continues to impose measures impacting movements across the border.”
It is clear to see the impact on Star Vegas, but they are not alone in having to face the strain, reflecting the broader challenge facing the casino industry in parts of Southeast Asia.
The reality is that border regions like this are susceptible to conflict matters which they have no control over, and when you consider how important Thai customers are to many venues in Poipet, it poses questions of sustainability. Free movement of people and money is not guaranteed, and without it, the casinos suffer.
Image credit: Grok/X
