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Thailand races to ‘legalise online gambling’ after casino bill
Ansh Pandey
January 15, 2025
Thailand is preparing to accelerate the legalisation of online gambling and casinos as part of efforts to establish a regulated framework for the industry. On Monday, the cabinet approved a new proposal in principle aimed at addressing issues related to online gambling.
Reportedly, the Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, indicates that legislation could be finalised within a month. He explained that the goal is to regulate underground gambling operations, bring them under legal oversight, and ensure they contribute to tax revenues.
The proposed framework will be implemented in phases. According to Reuters, the initial phase will involve amending secondary laws created by ministers, a process expected to take around a month.
Parliament approval awaited for new laws
Amending major laws, however, will require parliamentary approval. The process will involve collaboration between the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry, the Ministry of Interior, and the Council of State.
Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert highlighted the importance of a comprehensive and structured approach, ensuring the legalisation process addresses operational and tax-related challenges effectively.
The move aligns with the Thailand’s broader push to boost Thailand’s economy. On 13 January, the cabinet approved a draft bill to legalise casinos as part of a strategy to attract more investments, stimulate tourism, and address illegal gambling activities.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, following the cabinet meeting, emphasised the economic benefits of legalisation. She stated, “This will benefit society as a whole in the future. It supports sustainable tourism through man-made destinations, as addressed in Parliament.”
The Finance Ministry also endorsed the bill, echoing the government’s stance that the plan has an opportunity to create “entertainment complexes.” The Ministry projects a 5 to 10 percent increase in foreign tourism once the legislation is enacted.
Special focus on revenue generation
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat estimates that legalised gambling could generate up to THB 220 billion (£5.2 billion) in tourism revenue and create approximately 15,000 new jobs in entertainment-focused venues.
However, critics have noted gaps in the proposed legislation. The State Council and other stakeholders argue that the focus on gambling overshadows entertainment aspects.
Suggestions abound that amending the 1935 Gambling Act is more beneficial rather than introducing a completely new law.
Despite these concerns, the Ministry of Finance continues to promote the bill as a key driver of economic recovery and growth.
If successfully implemented, the legislations could significantly transform Thailand’s gambling sector, providing a substantial boost to the economy while addressing issues of illegal operations.
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