Thailand’s ambitious proposal to open five casino resorts in major tourist destinations has run into trouble. The decision was delayed to March 11 from its original March 4 cabinet approval date. However, as politicians balance the possible economic benefits against the growing number of protests, mounting public resistance has led to additional delays.
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket are the locations of the proposed entertainment complexes, which are intended to establish Thailand as a significant participant in the international gaming market. According to proponents, the nation may become the third-largest market after Macau and Las Vegas, with gross gaming revenue (GGR) of up to 308 trillion baht ($9.1 billion) every year.
Global gaming behemoths have already expressed interest. While businesses like Galaxy Entertainment Group, Genting Singapore, MGM Resorts, Wynn Resorts, and Las Vegas Sands Corp. have hinted at possible engagement, Melco Resorts & Entertainment has opened an office in Bangkok.
Public Backlash and Political Uncertainty
Despite the projected economic boost, resistance to legal gambling has intensified. Protesters, including members of the Thai Pakdee party, the People and Student Network for the Reform of Thailand, and the Dhamma Army, have staged demonstrations, calling for the bill’s withdrawal.
A petition with 100,000 signatures was submitted to Prime Minister Paetongtarn, urging the government to reconsider its stance. On March 11, further protests erupted outside Government House, led by former activist Jatuporn Prompan. Speaking to the Bangkok Post, he declared, “People who love the country must rise up and unite to fight the legalisation of casinos and online gambling.”
Concerns about local gambling addiction have led to shifting regulatory proposals. Initially, the bill required Thai nationals to pay an entry fee of 5,000 baht to access casinos. Later, lawmakers introduced a clause requiring local gamblers to have 50 million baht in savings, a restriction that was later withdrawn but remains under discussion.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn emphasized the need for further debate, stating, “There is no need to expedite [the bill’s] return to the cabinet. Let all issues be thoroughly examined first… because Thailand has never had casinos before.”
As the government navigates public concerns and investor interest, the fate of Thailand’s casino expansion remains uncertain.
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