Thailand Delays Decision on Casino Bill
New Gambling Regulation Could Generate up to $15 Billion in GGR
On the Bubble
Thailand’s government officially postponed a parliamentary debate on a proposal to legalize betting casinos within resorts across the country. The Entertainment Complex Bill was initially set for discussion this Wednesday (April 9), but the debate will now take place in July.
The move represents a clear setback for advocates who see cash casinos as a pivotal step to boost tourism revenue and counter economic issues. However, recent casino news out of the Dusit District of Bangkok point to a strong opposition from different actors in Thai society.
PM Paetongtarn said on Tuesday the government’s proposed Entertainment Complex Bill has been distorted by opponents when in fact legal casinos will only take up 10 percent of the land of the complex. She added that she will clarify the matter to the public.#Thailand #casino… pic.twitter.com/4Y3YKaVA5V
— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) April 8, 2025
Reasons for Postponement
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the debate would be deferred, citing two immediate crises.
First, the government aims to address the substantial fallout from the recent US tariffs. Second, the government continues to prioritize relief efforts after the major earthquake that struck along the Myanmar-Thai border just a couple of weeks ago.
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul acknowledged that the quake significantly altered public sentiment and forced a shift in legislative priorities.
Widespread Opposition
Beyond natural disasters and trade issues, the bill also faces social opposition. Religious leaders, including the Buddhist Association of Thailand, have denounced the plan, framing it as contradictory to the nation’s moral values.
Thai protesters demonstrate against the government’s draft of an entertainment complex bill to legalize casino gambling, outside the Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand. 📷 EPA/Narong Sangnak#epaimages #protest #thailand #casino pic.twitter.com/aV0vRsFJqC
— EPA Images (@EPA_Images) April 9, 2025
Other groups have warned of potential increases in gambling addiction, organized crime, and environmental damage. Meanwhile, former drafters of Thailand’s 2007 constitution wrote an open letter arguing the bill undermines long-term economic security.
Critics also question the reliability of an official consultation that claimed 80% public support, pointing out statistical anomalies in the survey data.
Tariffs and Economic Pressures
The initiative seemed to take on added urgency after the United States imposed a steep 36% tariff on Thai exports. This tax is significantly higher than the 10% rate Singapore faces.
The casino proposal could offset losses in export revenue, which are currently estimated at $15 billion, according to Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
Supporters argue the bill could yield an annual gross gaming revenue of between $9 and $15 billion. This could position Thailand as the world’s third-largest gambling market, rivaling neighbouring Macau.
Projections point to a 5-10% boost in tourist numbers and millions of dollars in additional tourism revenue. Up to 20,000 new jobs could be generated as well.
Royal Flush of Casinos?
Under current gambling regulations, Thailand only allows horse racing and lotteries, which are run by the state. The Entertainment Complex Bill would authorize the creation of up to five casinos in premier tourism areas such as:
- Bangkok
- Chiang Mai
- Phuket
- Chonburi
The proposed legislation is modeled after Singapore’s approach. Betting casinos would occupy, at most, 10% of each property. The remaining space would be allocated to hotels, shopping malls, and other entertainment facilities.
Originally, the bill also included strict regulations for Thai nationals, including a $145 (5,000 baht) entry fee and fixed deposits of at least $140,000 (50 million baht) for six consecutive months.
However, this measure was taken out as it could encourage the use of international online casinos.
Approval from the Cabinet was given in January 2025, followed by a second draft endorsement in late March, which signaled a growing momentum toward a major policy change.
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