Key points:
- Thailand has identified Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai and Phuket as locations for planned casino-entertainment complexes
- The project is expected to attract 50 million visitors annually and generate significant economic activity
- Public opposition remains strong, with concerns over youth gambling, money laundering and regulatory oversight
Thailand has announced Bangkok, Chonburi, Chiang Mai and Phuket as the first four provinces to host planned casino-entertainment complexes, two months after the Cabinet approved a draft law to legalise gambling.
The 500-billion-baht ($14.9bn) initiative is part of a broader government effort to boost tourism revenue and compete with regional markets such as Singapore and the Philippines.
The announcement was made by Nikom Boonwiset, vice-chairman of the special committee overseeing the project, who stated that these locations were chosen due to their popularity among domestic and international tourists.
The Government estimates that the entertainment complexes could create 40,000 jobs and contribute to Thailand’s GDP, which the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects to reach $545.3bn in 2025.
Good to know: A recent survey conducted by Thailand’s National Institute of Development Administration found that 59% of respondents oppose the development of casino complexes, highlighting a divide between government ambitions and public sentiment
Each entertainment complex will include five-star hotels, shopping malls, amusement parks, sports arenas and convention centres, with less than 10% of the total space allocated to casinos.
The model follows similar developments in Singapore and the Philippines, where integrated resorts have significantly contributed to tourism growth.
However, opposition groups, including Thailand’s Stop Gambling Foundation, have expressed concerns over potential money laundering risks and the lack of strong youth gambling safeguards in the draft legislation.
Critics also warn that allowing junket operators – which have faced scrutiny in other jurisdictions – could pose regulatory challenges.
Public protests have taken place outside Thailand’s Finance Ministry and Government House in the past week, with demonstrators calling for the casino proposal to be scrapped.
The Entertainment Complex Bill, which was scheduled for discussion at the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, has been postponed to allow for further public feedback.
Meanwhile, the Government has also explored alternative casino sites, including Bangkok Port, as part of a broader feasibility study on gambling expansion. Supporters argue that Thailand risks losing potential tourism revenue to neighbouring countries with established casino industries.
The final decision on the casino-entertainment complex bill is expected in the coming months as discussions continue between the Government, regulatory bodies and public stakeholders.
In late 2024 – Gambling Insider correctly predicted the inclusion of Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya as three specified locations for casino development projects through 2025.
