Thailand is considering legalizing casinos to boost tourism and economic growth, despite concerns over crime and gambling addiction. The government aims to establish integrated entertainment complexes with strict regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Thailand is considering legalizing casinos in “entertainment complexes” to boost tourism revenue, despite facing opposition and concerns about the potential negative impacts.
- The proposal to legalize casinos in Thailand is a controversial move that could attract international casino operators and has drawn comparisons to the casino industry in Singapore.
- Legalizing casinos in Thailand comes with significant risks, including the potential for criminal syndicates to exploit the industry, as well as potential diplomatic tensions with China.
Thailand’s beautiful beaches, rich food, and cultural heritage attract many tourists. The government is now contemplating adding casinos to its offerings by legalizing gambling, including roulette and blackjack, through proposed “entertainment complexes.” These complexes would feature hotels, restaurants, and sports venues, aiming to boost tourism revenue significantly.
The government hopes to attract more visitors from China, where gambling is tightly regulated, and projections suggest these new developments could generate billions in the first year. However, opposition persists, focusing on potential risks such as addiction and the resurgence of illegal gambling activities.
The bill’s passage through parliament remains uncertain, especially after former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, a strong proponent of the legislation, was removed from office. The legislation faces opposition from several political parties, including the Bhumjaithai Party and the Democrat Party.
The government has stated its intention to model the casino regulations after Singapore, which legalized casinos in 2005, but concerns remain about the potential for criminal activity, especially considering the struggles of other Southeast Asian countries, like Cambodia, to control crime within their casino sectors.
A study commissioned by Thailand’s parliament found that the proposed entertainment complexes, similar to those in Singapore and Macau, could boost tourism revenue by at least $US12 billion ($18.1 billion) in the first year. Licenses are expected to be issued for five casinos, with two in Bangkok, one each in Chiang Mai and Phuket, and one in the Eastern Economic Corridor. Thai citizens will have to pay a 5,000 baht ($215) entry fee, while admission for foreigners will be free.
Experts highlight the legislation’s challenges, especially after the recent political shifts. Critics warn that, despite the projected economic benefits, the introduction of casinos may attract criminal activities and complicate Thailand’s existing regulatory landscape. As the debate unfolds, it remains to be seen whether these plans will move forward effectively.
Source : Thailand pushing ahead with plan to legalise massive casino ‘entertainment complexes’