The country’s online gambling laws could be ready sooner than land-based gambling
Thailand is making swift progress toward establishing legal online gambling regulations, with the framework expected to be finalized within a month. Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong confirmed the cabinet’s approval in principle of a proposal to regulate online gambling during a recent meeting. The initiative aims to transform underground gambling into a lawful industry, ensuring proper taxation and oversight.
The initial phase involves amending secondary laws, a task requiring collaboration between the DES, the Ministry of Interior, and the Council of State. These adjustments are anticipated to take about a month.
Following this, amendments to major laws will be considered, pending parliamentary approval. The government’s overarching goal is to regulate popular activities, such as online football betting and traditional forms of gambling like cockfighting, alongside digital gambling platforms.
Minister Prasert highlighted the ongoing discussions between government bodies, emphasizing that the legalization of underground gambling aligns with the administration’s policy to boost state revenue. Public hearings will be conducted as part of the process to gather input and ensure the framework’s effectiveness.
Despite the cabinet’s approval, the decision has not been formally announced through official channels. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra initially revealed the development during a campaign event in Chiang Rai, sparking public interest. The government’s focus during the meeting was reportedly on the broader Entertainment Complex Bill, overshadowing the gambling legislation discussions.
Key details, including whether the government or private sector will manage online gambling, remain undecided. These specifics will be clarified in the secondary legislation phase. If finalized as planned, Thailand could see a significant shift in its gambling landscape, turning what was once an underground activity into a regulated and taxable sector.

Editor at the Big Blind, is a rising star in gambling journalism with a decade of experience, focusing on clear and accessible communication for a diverse audience.