Plans to legalize casino entertainment complexes in Thailand have been delayed, with the government opting to hold further discussions with coalition partners and stakeholders before moving forward. The proposed bill, which aims to bring legal casinos to the country, is a key part of the Pheu Thai-led government’s policy agenda. However, the process has been slowed as flood recovery efforts in the North take precedence.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed that there is no rush to push the casino-entertainment complex project through parliament. “We need to ensure that all coalition parties are in agreement before proceeding,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach to the project.
The proposed bill, which has already received positive feedback during public hearings, will be presented to the cabinet later this year. Despite this progress, Julapun noted that the legislation is still months away from becoming a reality, with many details yet to be finalized, according to Bangkok Post.
Stakeholder Input Crucial to Final Bill
The project’s success hinges on input from a wide range of stakeholders. Julapun pointed out that the bill will be subject to scrutiny by a diverse committee, which will likely lead to changes from the original draft. “The final version of the bill may differ significantly as it will be shaped by the backgrounds and viewpoints of various stakeholders,” he stated.
No decision has been made on the specific locations for the proposed casino complexes, although five regions are currently being considered, including two sites in Bangkok, as well as locations in the Eastern Economic Corridor, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. A feasibility study conducted by an independent agency will analyze the potential impact of the complexes on local communities, job creation, and the tourism industry.
The proposed law includes a policy board, chaired by the prime minister, which will establish regulations for the operation of these entertainment venues. Licensees would be required to pay a substantial registration fee of 5 billion baht, along with an annual fee of 1 billion baht, for the right to operate a complex. Licenses would be valid for 30 years, with the possibility of a 10-year renewal, according to Thai.News.
The bill has been in discussion for months now, with the local government fully supporting the idea of having big entertainment complexes developed in the country in an attempt to boost economic output and also encourage tourism in some areas that have the potential to become popular destinations, especially for foreigners.
