Legalize casinos to, among other things, attract even more tourists? The government is bringing the idea back to Thailand. On March 29, 2024, the executive announced that a bill legalizing gaming establishments could be adopted during the mandate of the current Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisine. Arguments ? Create jobs and better control illegal games, which are increasingly present in the country. The project could also strengthen the tourism sector.
Compete with neighboring countries
Already very touristy, the country welcomed nearly 28 million travelers last year. and could “explode” its record this year, with 36 million visitors expected. The opening of casinos could attract gambling enthusiasts and “recover” visitors who are tempted by Macau, which is less than 3 hours by plane from Thailand. This small autonomous region in southern China is the only place where gambling is legal in the country. Considered the “Las Vegas of Asia”, Macau is at the forefront of the global gaming industry. It has nearly 40 casinos, including “The Venetian” and its more than 3,000 slot machines.
Singapore also appears to be a model to follow, according to Thai Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. In Asia, other countries have already taken the plunge and opened casinos, such as the Philippines or Cambodia, some of which are even on the border with Thailand.
“The Venetian” Macao Casino BENEDETTA BARBANTI / bennymarty - stock.adobe.com
Along the same lines, the Thai Parliament also approved a law aimed at studying the creation of entertainment complexes. These buildings would house casinos, but also concert halls and gymnasiums for sports such as Muay-Thai boxing or cockfighting. Money betting would be authorized there. These complexes are expected to be built in locations within 100 km of the country's airports.
Sorawong Thienthong, deputy chairman of Thailand's parliamentary committee, told Reuters the government would be responsible for taxation and regulation, but would not finance construction and operating costs, which would fall to private companies.
The majority of the population is unfavorable
In the past, the legalization of gambling in Thailand had already been discussed but no law was established due to public opposition. According to a 2021 opinion poll, 46.51% opposed legalized gaming due to moral and criminal concerns, while 21.25% were in favor.
Today, however, the government of Srettha Thavisin seems determined to follow through: “
We do not want to promote gambling, but rather monitor it and use investments to create jobs.
"
, declared the Prime Minister on the social
network