Thailand’s Casino Dreams: Experts Divided on Success

Prominent gaming experts disagree on whether Thailand can develop a sustainable casino sector. Legislation may be tabled “early next year,” but despite the government’s $2.7 billion resort ambitions, others worry that political unpredictability may deter major investors.

Investment security is a top priority for Fredric Gushin, CEO of Spectrum Gaming. Saying that “hope doesn’t mean reality,” he highlights how crucial stability is.

Daniel Cheng, an analyst, acknowledges the risk. Even with Thailand’s “gambling population” being sizable, he cautions that “anything can still happen.”

Paul Bromberg of Spectrum Gaming agrees, saying that the eight proposed complexes “would be a mistake.” The central government may face challenges as a result of regional competition for these projects.

The number of large-scale IRs that are expected by 2030 varies from “none” to “two or three.”** Although they are an option, smaller casinos would not fit the government’s agenda.

In his warning, Cheng states that “even if they push through legislation, they could fail in the execution.”Whether Thailand’s dreams of a casino come true is a matter best left to speculation.

Original Story by: Asian Gaming Brief