BANGKOK (AP) – On Monday, Thailand's Cabinet gave the green light to a draft bill aimed at legalizing casinos, a move intended to enhance tourism and revitalize the sluggish national economy. While certain forms of gambling are currently permitted, including betting on boxing and horse racing, the establishment and operation of casinos remain illegal in Thailand, a Southeast Asian nation known for its diverse attractions.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed reporters after the cabinet meeting, asserting that the proposed legislation would not only draw in foreign investments but also address the persistent issue of illegal gambling within the country. “It will benefit society as a whole in the future,” Paetongtarn emphasized. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to promote sustainable tourism, particularly through the development of man-made destinations, a point that has been previously addressed in Parliament.
The Finance Ministry, which is spearheading the bill, is expected to unveil additional details regarding the plans. These plans are being marketed as “entertainment complexes” that also include other amenities such as hotels, convention halls, shopping malls, and theme parks. Under the proposed law, individuals under the age of 20 will be prohibited from entering casinos. Moreover, while foreign visitors will have complimentary access to the casinos, Thai nationals will be required to pay an entrance fee of 5,000 baht (approximately $148).
The draft legislation is set to be submitted to the Office of the Council of State for review. Following this, it will be presented to Parliament, where members of the House of Representatives and the Senate will discuss and ultimately vote on it. Government spokesperson Jirayu Hoangsub commented on the necessity of the bill, stating, “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 is a critical driver of Thailand’s economy, a fact that has consistently garnered attention from various administrations striving to bolster economic growth. Legalizing casinos is considered a strategic move to capitalize on the thriving tourism sector, which has been a focal point for generating national income. The government's pro-active approach towards making gambling a formalized aspect of the tourism industry aims to provide a regulated environment that can yield significant economic benefits.
