The government has postponed reviewing the proposed law amid increased opposition
Thailand’s plans to legalize casinos have hit a roadblock as the government announced delays in reviewing a proposed entertainment complex bill. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra confirmed yesterday that the Cabinet would not proceed with its scheduled evaluation of the bill, citing the need for a more thorough review before making a final decision.
One of the key issues under discussion is a controversial requirement that local players must have at least THB50 million (US$1.5 million) in their bank accounts to enter casinos. The provision has sparked debate among industry experts and investors, with many arguing that such a high financial threshold could limit domestic participation and impact the overall success of casino projects in Thailand.
Concerns have also been raised about how these restrictions might influence investor interest. Some industry analysts believe that requiring such a large bank balance could discourage potential operators from investing, especially given the already high minimum investment requirement of $3 billion. Others suggest that while the rule may not completely prevent investment, it could reshape financial commitments and dampen enthusiasm for the project.
Government officials have sent mixed signals about whether the bank balance requirement will remain in the final version of the bill. While the Council of State initially recommended it, recent comments from government representatives suggest that it may not survive further review.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat indicated that the amendment would be included when the bill moves to parliament but hinted that a less restrictive alternative is being considered. A revised version may require Thai citizens to prove income tax payments for three consecutive years instead.
With delays now in place and key details still unsettled, Thailand’s path to legal casino gambling remains uncertain. The final outcome will depend on further government deliberations and investor responses.
