Thai Anti Gambling Groups Urge Parties to Drop Lottery Riches Campaigns

Anti gambling organisations in Thailand are pressing political parties to change campaign messaging that promotes wealth through state backed lottery programs. The call comes days before voters head to the polls, as campaign promises tied to lottery expansion gain visibility.

The groups argue that election rhetoric around lottery winnings risks misleading voters and deepening gambling related harm.

Good to Know

• Anti gambling groups say lottery promises mislead voters ahead of the February election
• More than 27 million Thais bought government lottery tickets in 2023
• Campaign pledges include daily millionaire lottery draws

Ahead of the 8 February general election, a coalition led by the Stop Gambling Foundation called on political parties to suspend appeals encouraging citizens to participate in government lottery schemes. Four allied organisations joined the demand, warning that campaign tactics promote unrealistic expectations of financial gain.

In a joint five point statement released Tuesday, the coalition said lotteries represent the most addictive form of gambling in Thailand. The statement said:

“Lotteries are the form of gambling that most ‘intoxicates’ Thais. In 2023, 27.5 million Thais bought the Government Lottery, while 22 million bought underground lottery tickets — a number five times higher than those who gamble on cards, online gambling or football betting. Each year, more than 400,000 new lottery customers enter the market.”

The groups stressed that lotteries fall under gambling laws in Thailand and disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Children, young people, and older citizens face higher exposure, while underground lottery networks continue to spread alongside legal sales.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Thanakorn Komkrit rejected lottery focused campaign platforms. He said: “We do not agree with the ‘all kinds of lottery’ policies of every political party.”

While no party was named directly, the criticism aligns closely with proposals from the Pheu Thai Party. The party has promoted a “Nine Millionaires a Day” initiative as part of its election platform. The plan would award THB1 million, or about US$31,700, each day to nine Thai citizens through a government lottery draw.

Under the proposal, four daily prizes would target specific groups, including farmers, adults over 60, volunteers, and individuals who file personal income tax. Party leaders say the program would broaden tax participation while stimulating economic activity.

At a January rally, Yodchanan Wongsawat said the policy would strengthen the economy by expanding the tax base. He said the plan could create 3,240 millionaires per year, or roughly 26,000 over eight years. That projection assumes two additional terms for the party, despite political turnover that has seen five Thai prime ministers removed since 2010, including three linked to Pheu Thai leadership.

Thailand maintains strict gambling limits under current law. Most forms of betting remain prohibited, with exceptions limited to the state lottery and regulated horse racing wagers.

Efforts to expand gambling through large scale projects have also stalled. Last year, a proposal to introduce integrated casino resorts failed to secure approval. The Entertainment Complex Bill, backed by Pheu Thai, would have allowed up to five integrated resorts nationwide. The proposal drew interest from international operators including MGM Resorts International, Melco Resorts & Entertainment, and Galaxy Entertainment Group before the plan collapsed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Thai anti gambling groups opposing lottery campaign promises?

They argue that lottery messaging misleads voters and increases gambling harm among vulnerable groups.

How many Thais buy lottery tickets each year?

In 2023, 27.5 million people bought government lottery tickets, while 22 million bought underground lottery tickets.

What is the Nine Millionaires a Day proposal?

It is a plan to award THB1 million daily to nine citizens through a lottery draw.

Is casino gambling legal in Thailand?

No. Most gambling remains illegal, with exceptions for the government lottery and horse racing bets.

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