Thailand’s Casino Dream: Fast Track, Uncertain Future

Thailand hopes to quickly legalize casinos; legislation might be passed as early as 2025. Concerns still exist, though, about the regulations’ objectivity and their potential to draw large foreign investment.

Though there are questions over long-term viability, analyst Daniel Cheng highlights the government’s desire to see accomplishments before their tenure ends.

Vitaly Umansky, another analyst, argues that Thailand might not benefit from copying the success stories of Macau or Singapore.

In his opinion, the nation is not yet prepared for significant multibillion-dollar investments from corporations like Wynn or Sands.

Multinational corporations view political instability and unclear regulations as key obstacles. Similar to Macau’s early days with Sands Macao, Umansky suggests a staged approach that starts small and builds on success.

Despite its aspirations, Thailand’s ability to establish a profitable casino industry is called into question by the absence of a clear and stable regulatory framework.

Original Story by: Inside Asian Gaming