Thailand is inching closer to legalising large-scale casino projects, but one key detail remains up for debate—just how much space should be allocated for gaming? The Ministry of Finance has suggested doubling the cap on casino floor space within new entertainment complexes, a move that could reshape the country’s emerging gaming landscape.
Government Reconsiders Casino Size Limits
The Finance Ministry has urged the Council of State to revise the draft bill that will regulate Thailand’s new entertainment complexes, recommending that casinos be allowed to take up to 10% of each facility’s total floor area, up from the originally proposed 5%. This proposal is still under review, with no final decision reached yet, according to The Bangkok Post.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat acknowledged the ongoing discussions but stressed that nothing is set in stone. “We have not yet reached [an agreement on] that level yet,” he told the press. The final call will rest with the Council of State, which has been consulting with key government agencies and stakeholders.
The Council has already conducted four rounds of discussions since the bill secured Cabinet approval earlier this month. The review process is expected to take another 50 days before any concrete amendments are made.
What the Current Bill Proposes
As it stands, the draft law allows casinos to occupy up to 5% of the total floor area within entertainment complexes. These casinos will be run by private operators, with strict financial requirements:
- Companies must have a minimum paid-up capital of at least THB 10 billion (approximately $285 million).
- The Thai government is expected to collaborate with private investors, potentially using a concession model similar to the one seen in Macau’s integrated resorts.
Although the exact number and location of these integrated resorts (IRs) are yet to be finalised, initial reports indicate that five casino licenses may be issued, with two expected to be in Bangkok.
Who’s Interested in Thailand’s Casino Market?
Several global gaming giants have already signalled interest in setting up shop in Thailand. Industry heavyweights such as Las Vegas Sands, Genting Singapore, Galaxy Entertainment Group, Melco Resorts, and MGM Resorts are all reportedly eyeing the market.
MGM Resorts, in particular, has indicated that if it pursues a Thai IR license, it would do so through its Macau subsidiary, MGM China. Given Thailand’s strategic location and booming tourism industry, the country presents a lucrative opportunity for these operators, who are keen to expand beyond their traditional strongholds in Macau, Singapore, and Las Vegas.
Economic Impact and Regulatory Hurdles
The introduction of legal casinos in Thailand could be a significant revenue driver. Industry analysts suggest that a well-regulated gaming sector could attract billions in investment and generate substantial tax revenue.
However, challenges remain. Thailand has long maintained strict anti-gambling laws, and while there appears to be growing political support for casinos, opposition from conservative groups and religious leaders could slow the process. Additionally, the government will need to carefully regulate casino operations to prevent money laundering and other illicit activities that have plagued gaming hubs in other countries.
For now, the debate continues. The Council of State’s decision on whether to expand casino space to 10% could set the tone for Thailand’s future as a major player in the global gaming industry.
Leave a Reply