Thailand’s Cabinet approved a draft law for casinos and entertainment complexes in an effort to attract more tourists and build a major gaming industry. The draft law will limit Thai punters’ access to casinos with an entry fee of 5,000 baht and proof of at least 50 million baht in bank deposits, effectively excluding a large portion of the population. The law will be sent to Parliament for approval, and if passed, will also need approval from the Senate and the King.
The government hopes to attract at least 100 billion baht in new investment in casinos and entertainment complexes, aiming for an annual boost in foreign arrivals of 5-10% and generating revenue of more than 12 billion baht a year. Despite most betting and gambling being illegal in Thailand, illicit operations have continued for years. Some opposition to the plan has been expressed in Thailand, with concerns that building a gambling industry could worsen social problems.
Several countries in South-east Asia have legalized casinos, with Singapore being successful in attracting global giants like Las Vegas Sands. Tourism is a key driver of Thailand’s economy, with the government expecting 38 million foreign arrivals in 2025.
