Thai Casino Law Expected to be Sent to Cabinet by this year

The draft law concerning casino resorts is expected to be sent to Thailand’s cabinet before the end of the year. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat announced that the cabinet is expected to consider this draft law within the current calendar year. Following cabinet approval, it will be forwarded to the parliamentary assembly for deliberation.

The House of Representatives is scheduled to reconvene in mid-December and will continue its regular session until April 2025. This timeframe will be crucial for discussions regarding the draft, which represents a landmark change in Thailand’s approach to gambling and entertainment.

According to Mr. Julapun, this draft law would be the first of its kind in Thailand to permit the establishment of legal casinos. The proposal has already undergone public scrutiny, with an encouraging 82% of participants supporting the idea during a recent public hearing. This level of backing indicates strong public interest in the potential benefits of such entertainment venues.

A study by the Fiscal Policy Office highlights the potential economic advantages of introducing these entertainment complexes. The study suggests that these developments could attract an additional 5% to 20% of foreign tourists to Thailand. Each visitor is expected to spend an average of 60,000 baht, up from the current spending of 40,000 baht. This increase in tourist expenditure could significantly contribute to the nation’s economy.

The projected benefits extend beyond just tourism. The construction of these complexes will require substantial investment, generating numerous jobs during the building phase. Once completed, these venues will create ongoing employment opportunities for local residents, providing much-needed jobs in the hospitality and entertainment sectors.

Mr. Julapun emphasized the importance of local workforce development. He expressed hope that many Thai citizens will find employment in these new entertainment complexes. He noted that training programs may be necessary to equip workers with the skills needed for the evolving job market.

The draft legislation sets a minimum registered capital requirement of 10 billion baht for private sector investors looking to establish these complexes. This stipulation aims to ensure that only well-resourced companies can participate in this lucrative venture. The government will evaluate proposals based on what companies can offer, as well as the types of projects they wish to develop as attractions.

For Thai citizens who wish to enter the casinos, the legislation proposes an entry fee not exceeding 5,000 baht per visit. This fee aims to regulate access while allowing locals to enjoy the new entertainment offerings.

The draft law also outlines the terms for operating licenses. Licenses will be valid for 30 years, with the option to renew in increments of 10 years. The initial license fee is set at 5 billion baht, along with an annual fee of 1 billion baht. These financial requirements highlight the government’s intention to manage this sector responsibly while maximizing its potential economic impact.

As the country prepares for these legislative changes, stakeholders in the tourism and entertainment industries are keenly watching the developments. Supporters argue that the introduction of legal casinos could enhance Thailand’s appeal as a tourist destination, drawing visitors who seek both leisure and entertainment experiences.

However, there are concerns about the potential social implications of legalizing gambling. Critics, such as Thai politician Newin Chidchob, caution that increased access to casinos may lead to a rise in gambling addiction and related social issues. The government will need to address these concerns as it moves forward with the legislation.

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