The government will maintain exclusivity in deciding where to allow casinos
Thailand is advancing plans to legalize casinos as part of larger entertainment complexes, with significant decisions on the horizon. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has confirmed that the government will play a central role in selecting locations for these projects to ensure fairness among investors. This approach aims to prevent potential manipulation during the bidding process and maintain a level playing field.
The proposed legislation also outlines how many casino complexes will be allowed nationwide. Once this number is finalized, the plan will be presented to the cabinet for approval.
Construction of the integrated resorts (IRs) is expected to take three to four years, with each project requiring an investment of at least THB100 billion (US$2.92 billion). Once operational, the resorts are projected to boost Thailand’s GDP by up to 0.7% annually.
The new entertainment complexes aim to transform Thailand’s tourism sector, attracting more foreign visitors and increasing their spending. A study by the Fiscal Policy Office suggests these projects could raise average spending per visitor from THB40,000 (US$1,169) to THB60,000 (US$1,754), potentially increasing tourist numbers by 5–20%.
Under the draft bill, licenses for operators will be valid for up to 30 years, with stringent financial requirements, including a THB5 billion (US$146 million) registration fee. Thai nationals will face a THB5,000 (US$146) entry fee, while visitors under 20 years old will be barred from entering.
Potential sites include Bangkok, the Eastern Economic Corridor, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Gaming operators, including Macau-based Galaxy Entertainment, have already shown interest in the Bangkok area. The government expects the bill to pass through parliament by mid-2025, marking a significant step toward reshaping the country’s entertainment and tourism industries.
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