Thailand's cabinet approves a draft law to legalize casinos within entertainment complexes. The bill now awaits parliamentary approval.
Thailand’s cabinet has approved a draft law legalizing casinos, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said on January 13 through a statement.
The ball is now on Thailand’s parliament to deliberate the law, which targets legalizing casinos within entertainment complexes. Paetongtarn expressed hope that the project would stimulate the economy and tourism.
Currently most forms of gambling are illegal in Thailand, with the exemption of state-controlled horse races and official lottery. However, most forms of underground gambling remain rampant, with operations happening left and right around the border of the Kingdom.
Paetongtarn emphasized the benefits of swift implementation, citing Singapore's successful model where casinos comprised only 10% of a similar entertainment complex, yet significantly boosted tourism, economic growth, and GDP. She hopes for similar results in Thailand. A 5,000 baht entrance fee will be required for Thai citizens accessing the casino.
Addressing concerns about potential increases in illegal or grey market businesses, the Prime Minister stated that transparency would benefit the country, generating increased tax revenue.
The draft law will also be submitted to Thailand House of Representatives for consideration and enactment, though no timeline has been set.
A report earlier said Thailand's Council of State was planning to oppose a measure that would legalize casinos within Integrated Resorts, claiming it was breaching government policy.
Thailand is also studying the possibility of legalizing online gambling operations in the Kingdom, with Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantarauangtong saying this would be "good for the economy."
Read related article: Thailand Council of State to oppose Integrated Resort bill
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