Thailand’s Entertainment Complex Bill Moves Closer to Approval
Thailand’s proposed Entertainment Complex Bill, which would introduce casino resorts in up to five locations, is advancing through the legislative process. The bill, initially approved by the cabinet in January, is set for further review in March before heading to parliament. An additional provision under consideration involves legalizing online gambling.
Casino Resorts and Legislative Progress
The draft bill outlines a framework for integrated resorts modeled after Singapore’s entertainment complexes. These venues would include hotels, entertainment centers, meeting spaces, theme parks, and casinos. However, casino areas would be capped at 10% of the total floor space, according to recommendations from the Council of State.
Despite this structured approach, key elements remain unresolved. “The number of resorts and their locations are still unclear,” said Atavit Suwanpakdee, chairman of an advisory board to the Ministry of Industry. The lack of specificity has led to concerns about how the law will be implemented.
Potential Expansion into Online Gambling
An additional provision under consideration involves legalizing online gambling. Prasert Jantararuangtong, Thailand’s Minister of Digital Economy and Society, argued that regulating online betting could curb illegal operations and generate tax revenue. A two-week public consultation on the topic will conclude on March 1.
Opposition and Social Concerns
Not everyone is convinced of the bill’s benefits. Critics warn that the expansion of legal gambling could bring significant social challenges.
Thanakorn Khomkrit, secretary general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, criticized the lack of clarity in the draft, calling it “similar to writing a blank cheque.” He questioned whether the legislative process would result in stricter regulations or create loopholes that could be exploited.
Economic concerns have also been raised. Chittawan Chanagul, an economics lecturer at Kasetsart University in Bangkok, pointed to examples from other markets, citing reports of corruption linked to casinos in developing countries. She referenced the Philippines, where offshore gaming operators (POGOs) were linked to financial crimes and other criminal activities, leading to a government crackdown.
Economic Potential and Industry Expectations
Supporters of the bill focus on its financial benefits. A Citigroup report estimates that a legalized gaming industry in Thailand could generate up to $9.1 billion in annual revenue, positioning the country as the third-largest gaming market globally, behind Macau and Las Vegas.
For now, the bill will return to the cabinet for further consideration by March 4 before advancing to parliament.