Thailand moves closer to legalization of casinos

Thailand took a big step at the start of the new year with the country confirming a bill legalizing casino games has been handed to Parliament for approval after a sign-off from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. 

At the core of the bill is a sense of balance, trying to safeguard players from the dangers of gambling while also allowing a healthy economy by increasing the country’s tax revenue. 

The move is also a big boost for the already growing tourism industry of the country because the entertainment venues that are being put forward by the plans significantly increase the allure of Thailand from the perspective of travelers. 

One of the things that has to be decided is where the casinos will be located. But it has been widely believed that at least one of the sites will be located in Bangkok. 

It is one of seven Shinawatra-led designs for integrated resorts across the country. 

The Bangkok Post added that gaming would probably only be allowed to occupy 10 per cent of the space in the integrated resorts. 

This is contrary to previous reports that the new bill would allow only 5% of integrated resort floorspace to be used for gaming, with the rest of the real estate to be dedicated to entertainment and then marketed as flexible venues that can boost tourism rather than just being gambling halls. 

Local media claims that Prime Minister Shinawatra has recently supported plans for seven projects in the region. This will further solidify the plans and speed up progress.

The new steps mean the process might be wrapped up by the end of the year and cement progress for the casino business within Thailand.