Thailand's Casino Bill Set for Parliamentary Discussion by April 9
Thailand’s cabinet has approved the controversial Entertainment Complex Bill, which would legalise casino resorts across the country. The move has sparked debate, with critics warning of rushed decision-making and unclear regulations surrounding the proposed developments.
The bill’s next step is a parliamentary discussion, potentially as early as April 9. This timeline was confirmed by Wisut Chainarun, the government’s chief whip and a list-MP for the Pheu Thai Party. However, formal confirmation of its progression remains pending.
Over 100 civil society groups have criticised the government for fast-tracking the legislation. Their concerns include a lack of transparency over key details, such as the number of planned complexes, their locations, and the intended audiences. Questions have also been raised about licensing authority, tax structures, and weak legal safeguards that could expose the sector to money laundering risks. In Phuket, reactions are mixed. Some tourism stakeholders back the bill, viewing it as a potential boost for economic growth. Others, like Thanet Tantipiriyakit, president of the Phuket Tourist Association, oppose the casino model. Instead, he proposed positioning Phuket as a high-end entertainment destination without gambling.
The bill’s future now rests with Parliament, where its details—and the government’s handling of public concerns—will face closer scrutiny. If passed, the legislation would mark a major shift in Thailand’s tourism and regulatory landscape.
