Thailand looks to be close to allowing casinos as part of larger entertainment complexes with a recent public hearing revealing that almost 80% of participants are in favor of their introduction.
Over 70,000 people across the country took part in the consultation between February 28 and March 14, so the fact that such a high percentage of these are all for casinos is a boost for those looking to get the legislation passed.
At the heart of the initiative is the government’s hope to legalize and regulate gambling in a way that curbs the underground market, boosts tourism, and increases tax revenue.
According to officials, legalizing casinos could also help attract foreign investment while offering a structured, monitored alternative to the widespread illegal gaming that already exists.
However, while the public support seems to be there, opposition groups, academics, and anti-gambling organizations have raised red flags around addiction, social harm, and the possibility that only large corporations — many of them foreign — will benefit.
Some have even accused the government of pushing ahead too quickly, suggesting that the lack of a full feasibility study or concrete details on how casino operations will be taxed or regulated could be a misstep.
Still, Thailand is positioning itself to follow in the footsteps of its regional neighbors such as Singapore which already has integrated resorts.
These have been successful in both driving tourism and investment, boosting the country as a whole.
Global operators like Galaxy Entertainment Group, MGM Resorts, and Las Vegas Sands have all shown interest in Thailand, viewing the country as an appealing hedge against uncertainties in markets like Macau.
To address concerns about local gambling addiction, the draft Bill includes strict conditions for Thai citizens.
Those wishing to enter casinos must show six months of bank statements proving at least 50 million baht (approx. USD 1.4 million) in fixed deposits.
Foreigners, by contrast, must simply be at least 20 years old. The law also limits gaming floors to no more than 10% of any entertainment complex.
Even though these seem like great steps, some say the financial barrier for locals is excessive and overly exclusive, while others argue that the 10% cap on casino floor space could limit the commercial viability of such projects.
The proposed legislation will next be reviewed by the Cabinet. If approved, it will head to the House of Representatives and the Senate.
The plan includes a 30-year casino licence costing five billion baht upfront and one billion baht annually thereafter, with the possibility of 10-year renewals.
Initial casino licences are expected to be granted in major tourist hubs like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket — if the legislation makes it through Thailand’s often-cautious political process.
