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VisitThailand's Cabinet Approves Casino Legalization Bill to Boost Tourism, Jobs, and Revenue
Jan 15, 2025, 07:27 AM
Thailand's cabinet has approved a draft bill to legalize casinos within entertainment complexes, aiming to boost tourism, create jobs, and increase state revenue. The proposed law, which will be sent to parliament for deliberation, allows casinos to operate alongside other businesses such as hotels, convention halls, malls, and theme parks. Currently, gambling in Thailand is limited to state-controlled horse races and an official lottery, despite widespread illegal betting. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized that the legalization would help address illegal gambling and attract more investments. The bill faces opposition from conservative groups in the Buddhist-majority nation, but is supported by influential figures like former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The government anticipates that the entertainment complexes could increase tourist numbers by 5% to 10% and generate up to 15,000 new jobs. Under the proposed regulations, Thai citizens would need to pay a 5,000 baht entrance fee to access the casinos, while foreigners would have free entry, and individuals under 20 years old would be banned from entering.
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Markets
Yes • 50%
No • 50%
Official opening announcement from the casino or government
No • 50%
Yes • 50%
Official announcement from Thailand's parliament or government
No • 50%
Yes • 50%
Tourism statistics released by Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports
Less than 5,000 jobs • 25%
More than 15,000 jobs • 25%
10,001 to 15,000 jobs • 25%
5,000 to 10,000 jobs • 25%
Employment statistics from Thailand's Ministry of Labor
Passed with amendments • 25%
Postponed indefinitely • 25%
Passed without amendments • 25%
Rejected • 25%
Official announcement from Thailand's parliament or government
Supportive stance • 25%
Strong opposition and protests • 25%
Moderate opposition with negotiations • 25%
Neutral stance • 25%
Public statements or publications by major conservative groups in Thailand