Key points:
- Cabinet approves draft bill allowing casinos inside entertainment complexes
- Locals still face THB50m bank deposit requirement and THB5,000 entry fee
- Prime Minister says details remain open to amendment by Parliament
Thailand’s cabinet has approved a draft bill that could pave the way for legal casinos inside entertainment complexes, as part of its broader plan to boost tourism and economic activity. However, the proposed rules still include strict entry conditions for Thai nationals — namely, a THB50m deposit requirement and a THB5,000 entry fee.
Earlier this month, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat suggested the wealth condition might be dropped, noting it would exclude a large portion of the population. Despite that, the cabinet opted to keep the clause in the bill's current version, allowing Parliament to decide whether it should remain.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra told reporters the draft is not set in stone and that changes could still happen as it moves through legislative review. The bill must now go through the House of Representatives, followed by the Senate and royal endorsement.
Another clause would limit the size of casino operations to just 10% of any entertainment complex. The Government hopes the project will attract at least THB100bn in investment and generate over THB12bn in annual revenue, while also boosting foreign visitor numbers.
Critics continue to raise concerns about social harm, affordability and whether ordinary Thai citizens will actually benefit. The inclusion of such a high financial barrier has raised eyebrows, particularly given Thailand’s per capita GDP of just over $7,000.
