The Pheu Thai Party has defended its plan to legalise casino-entertainment complexes, saying it will help boost Thailand’s economy and generate significant tax revenue.
This was in response to concerns raised by the opposition Thai Sang Thai Party over weak law enforcement, which they believe could hinder effective regulation of the casino industry.
According to Thai news reports, the party highlighted that legalising underground gambling and taxing the casino project could contribute over 50% of the country's GDP. Said revenue would be used to support educational and other development projects.
Pheu Thai emphasised the potential of tapping into the global "fun economy," which includes tourism, entertainment, and sports, valued at around $3.7trn. Legalising casinos was seen as a key strategy to capture this market and boost income.
The Fiscal Policy Office projects the global casino-based entertainment market to reach $2.2trn by 2028. Pheu Thai believes Thailand can benefit from this trend, with the first year of legalised casinos expected to generate at least TBH12bn ($360m) in taxes.
The Government is also moving forward with a bill that would allow casinos to operate legally. The draft legislation, which includes a 30-year licence for operators, is set to undergo public consultation before being presented to the cabinet.
Potential locations for the casino complexes include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and the Eastern Economic Corridor.
Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party in Thailand, also voiced his support for entertainment complex policies in the nation, provided it aligned with legal and moral standards and contributed positively to the economy.
