Gambling Legislation

Thailand Closer To Legalizing Casinos Following Latest Government Approval

Thailand Closer To Legalizing Casinos Following Latest Government Approval
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The Thailand Cabinet has approved a measure to legalize casinos in the country

Thailand is taking a significant step toward legalizing casinos, with the government’s approval of a draft law aimed at regulating gambling. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Monday that the proposed legislation is part of a broader strategy to enhance tourism, create jobs, and attract investment. The draft will now move to Parliament for further deliberation.

Currently, most forms of gambling are prohibited in Thailand, aside from state-controlled activities like horse racing and lotteries. Despite this, underground gambling and illegal betting are widespread. Proponents of the new law argue that legalizing casinos would curb these illicit activities while generating substantial revenue and boosting the country’s tourism potential.

Neighboring nations like Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines have successfully integrated large casino complexes into their economies, reaping financial and tourism benefits. Thailand, by contrast, has missed out on similar opportunities, according to government officials.

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated that legalizing gambling could drive a 5-10% increase in foreign visitors, potentially adding between 120 billion and 220 billion baht (US$3.45 billion to US$6.32 billion)  in tourism revenue annually. Additionally, the initiative is projected to create 9,000 to 15,000 new jobs.

The proposed law envisions gambling as part of larger entertainment complexes, which aligns with the government’s aim to attract high-spending tourists. However, the plan faces resistance from conservative factions within Thailand’s Buddhist-majority population, who have historically opposed such measures.

This push for legalization has gained traction under the influence of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a key advocate and father of the current leader. While the proposal still requires parliamentary approval, it represents a notable shift in Thailand’s approach to gambling, marking a potential turning point in the country’s economic and tourism landscape.

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