Macau-based casino operator Melco Resorts & Entertainment is planning to invest in integrated resorts and hotel in Thailand. This comes as the operator plans to bank on country’s robust tourism industry and culture, and the approval of legalised gambling.
Lawrence Ho, chairman and chief executive of Melco, dubbed Thailand as a top tourism country with great hospitality and a unique culture. Speaking at a Thailand Creative Culture Agency (THACCA) event, Ho said the company has set up a new office in Bangkok. New opportunities and collaboration will be explored via the new location.
One of the biggest factors driving Melco’s investment in Thailand is the potential for legalised gambling. The Thai government has been exploring the idea of legalising casinos to boost tourism and generate additional revenue for the country.
He said the company awaits clarity on investment regulations from the Thai government in terms of entertainment complexes with casinos. This is to better determine the size and budge for any projects it undertakes. He also underlined how large cities like Bangkok and Phuket offer great potential for such projects.
It is currently being decided by a Thai government committee on how many casino complexes will be built in the country. Once decided, the committee will present the matter to the cabinet for approval, as required under the current version of a bill that would clear the way for legalised gambling.
Melco attracted a total of 21 million visitors last year with its six integrated resorts in Macau, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Cyprus.
Collaboration with THACCA
In addition to its investments in resorts, Melco is also collaborating with Thailand Creative Culture Agency (THACCA) to launch a new initiative called “Global Soft Power Talks.” This forum, which will bring together global creative experts, will be featured on Thai TV and highlight the country’s cultural offerings in areas like culinary arts, branding, and design.
As part of this initiative, five Thai students will be selected for a three-month training program with international experts in the US, UK, Italy, France and Macau.
Surapong Suebwonglee, chairman of the National Soft Power Development Committee, said while the Thai soft power has strong potential to grow, it was not developed as it should have been in the past years.
The committee targets reskilling and upskilling over 20 million people by 2027. In addition, there are plans to train 5,000 chefs this year, while 400 Muay Thai gyms are open to train more than 100,000 people.
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