Public statements or publications by major conservative groups in Thailand

Thailand'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.