Thailand’s casino plan faces debate; ex-PM says strict bidding process to be implemented

Jenny Ortiz January 20, 2025

SiGMA news

Thailand’s proposed entertainment complex bill, championed by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has stirred public debate. The legislation seeks to establish integrated complexes featuring a variety of entertainment options, with casinos occupying less than 10 percent of the facilities. While the government emphasises the broader economic and tourism benefits, critics have labelled the initiative as a push towards a “sin economy.”

The Bangkok Post reported that Thaksin had addressed concerns over the potential for money laundering and other illicit activities, attributing public opposition to misunderstandings about the bill’s intent. He called on lawmakers to clarify the proposal and shift the focus from casinos to the multifaceted offerings within the complexes. He also dismissed calls for a referendum, arguing for swift legislative progress to enable regulatory bodies to begin work next year.

Strict bidding process for casino licences

The former Prime Minister also said that the proposed framework’s cornerstone is a stringent casino licence bidding process. Thaksin explained that licences would only be awarded to operators who can demonstrate clear benefits for tourism and government revenue. He highlighted the economic potential of the complexes, projecting the creation of 20,000 local jobs at each site, with competitive starting salaries.

The model draws inspiration from Singapore, where casinos are a minor component of larger entertainment hubs. Thaksin assured that strict regulations would govern gambling activities, limiting participation to affluent Thais to mitigate financial risks.

Criticism of the ‘sin economy’

Critics, including Democrat Party member Alongkorn Ponlaboot, have expressed concerns about the social implications of the bill. In a Facebook post, he argued that the focus on industries like gambling, alcohol, and other morally contentious activities could erode the nation’s ethical foundations. Alongkorn has questioned whether Thailand should adopt such an economic strategy and urged the public to consider alternatives for national development.

Economic recovery and long-term vision

Thaksin has framed the entertainment complex initiative as part of a broader strategy to revitalise Thailand’s economy, which he claims is burdened by high public debt. He envisions the complexes to boost tourism, generate substantial revenue, and improve local livelihoods. During a speech in Nakhon Phanom, he outlined plans for a Las Vegas-style complex featuring sports arenas, convention centres, and unique attractions like water parks and snow-skiing areas.

Thaksin also has made bold predictions about the country’s economic future, envisioning a Thailand free of pawn tickets by 2026 and a prosperous population by 2030. Despite the controversy, the entertainment complex bill continues its journey through parliament, with interest from international operators like Melco Resorts, MGM China, and Galaxy Entertainment.

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