Thailand Restores Nationwide Poker Ban Under Anutin

Thailand has once again outlawed poker nationwide following an executive order from Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, effectively reversing a brief legalization period introduced by the previous administration. The decision, announced Wednesday and reported by The Nation, reinstates strict prohibitions on poker and aligns with Anutin’s pledge to clamp down on all gambling-related activity.

Good to Know

• The nationwide poker ban was reinstated immediately under Anutin’s directive.
• The order reverses a ruling by former caretaker premier Phumtham Wechayachai that had allowed poker games.
• Thailand’s broader casino legalization plan was already shelved earlier this year.

Anutin’s order comes just weeks after his government vowed on September 29 to take a firm stance against all forms of gambling. The reversal explicitly cancels the decision made under Phumtham Wechayachai, who had approved poker games as part of limited gaming liberalization efforts.

The reinstatement reflects Anutin’s long-standing opposition to gambling as an economic stimulus. Shortly after assuming office in early September, he made clear that he disagreed with attempts to boost the economy through gaming legalization.

Only months ago, Thailand appeared close to joining its regional neighbors in legalizing integrated casino resorts. A draft casino bill had been introduced to Parliament earlier this year, but lawmakers withdrew it in July amid political upheaval.

The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Anutin, exited the previous coalition government under Paetongtarn Shinawatra in June. That coalition collapse was followed by the Constitutional Court confirming Shinawatra’s removal from power in August. On Wednesday, Shinawatra officially resigned as Pheu Thai Party leader, marking another political shift in a year filled with volatility.

Economic and Social Factors Behind the Ban

Thailand’s government has long grappled with balancing economic opportunity and social risk when it comes to gambling. Advocates for liberalization argued that casino resorts could generate tourism revenue and formalize underground betting markets. However, critics—including Anutin—warned of increased social harm and corruption.

By reimposing the poker ban, the administration signals a return to conservative policy, prioritizing social order over potential tax revenue. The move also distances the government from pro-casino factions, reinforcing Anutin’s intent to maintain tight control over gambling regulation.

In the Region

Neighboring countries such as Cambodia and Vietnam have benefited economically from casino zones catering to foreign visitors, a model Thailand had been evaluating. The renewed ban now puts Thailand firmly in the restrictive camp, maintaining one of the toughest gambling frameworks in Southeast Asia.

With political leadership now stabilizing and Pheu Thai’s pro-casino influence waning, the prospect of gambling liberalization in Thailand appears unlikely in the near future.

FAQ

What did Prime Minister Anutin’s new order do?

It revoked the prior legalization of poker, restoring Thailand’s full prohibition on poker and related games.

Why did the government reverse course on poker?

Anutin’s administration pledged to crack down on all gambling activities, rejecting earlier attempts to use gaming as an economic tool.

Was Thailand planning to legalize casinos?

Yes, a draft bill was introduced but voted against by the senate in September amid political turmoil and shifting alliances.

How does this affect Thailand’s gaming industry?

It halts any formal gambling initiatives and reinforces strict penalties for unauthorized gaming operations.

What’s next for gambling policy in Thailand?

With Anutin’s leadership and the fall of pro-casino political factions, any reform toward legalization is effectively off the table for now.

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