Thailand Moves to Legalize Casinos to Boost Tourism and Economy
Thailand’s Cabinet has approved a draft bill to legalize casinos, marking a significant step toward expanding the country’s entertainment and tourism industry. The legislation, approved on Monday, is aimed at attracting foreign investment, generating revenue, and addressing illegal gambling.
Casino Legalization as an Economic Strategy
Currently, Thailand permits limited forms of gambling, such as betting on boxing and horse racing. However, casinos remain illegal. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized that legalizing casinos could provide substantial economic benefits.
“It will benefit society as a whole in the future. This is part of the government’s policy to support sustainable tourism, or man-made destinations, which was addressed in Parliament,” Shinawatra stated.
The Finance Ministry, which sponsored the bill, is expected to release further details about the proposed casinos, which are being branded as “entertainment complexes.” These complexes would feature casinos alongside hotels, convention centers, malls, and theme parks to enhance their appeal as tourist destinations.
Regulations and Entry Requirements
According to the draft law:
Foreign tourists will have free access to the casinos.
Thai citizens will be required to pay a 5,000 baht (€140) entrance fee.
Individuals under 20 will not be permitted entry.
The proposal now heads to the Office of the Council of State for review before being presented to Parliament for debate and a final vote by the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Addressing Illegal Gambling and Economic Growth
Government spokesperson Jirayu Hoangsub highlighted that gambling, both legal and illegal, already exists within Thailand and its neighboring countries. Legalizing casinos, he argues, would help regulate the industry while contributing to the country’s economic growth.
“Isn’t it time for Thailand to acknowledge that there are gambling places, both legal and illegal, in the country and also the neighboring countries? This project aims to generate revenue for the country’s tourism sector.”
Tourism has long been a key driver of Thailand’s economy, and with the current administration prioritizing economic recovery, the introduction of casinos is positioned as a bold move to strengthen the tourism industry and attract high-value visitors.
Next Steps for the Casino Bill
The bill will undergo further review and refinements before reaching Parliament for deliberation. If passed, Thailand will join the growing list of Asian nations embracing casino tourism as a means of economic expansion. The decision is expected to shape the country’s tourism landscape for years to come.