Thai legislators will begin deliberating a draft law for casinos and entertainment complexes next month, as the government advances its plan to develop the gambling sector and boost tourism revenues.

Currently, gambling is mostly banned in Thailand, except for the state-controlled lottery, horse racing, and limited sports betting. However, successive governments have pushed for casino legalization, aiming to attract foreign visitors, create jobs, and generate state revenue.

Government's Vision for Economic Growth

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to responsible regulation, stating: “The government will create a comprehensive law and prevent negative impact.”

He further emphasized Thailand’s need for change, describing the bill as a new economic growth engine that should be finalized within the current government’s term, which ends in two years.

Strict Local Restrictions in the Draft Law

The casino bill, approved by the cabinet in March, includes tight regulations for local residents, such as:

• A 5,000 baht ($153) entry fee
• Proof of at least 50 million baht in bank deposits, effectively excluding most of the population

Once approved by the lower house, the bill would need Senate approval before being endorsed by the King.

The Thai government, led by the Pheu Thai party, expects the new law to attract up to 100 billion baht ($3 billion) in casino investments and increase foreign tourist arrivals by up to 10%.

Thailand’s Gambling Market and Tourism Outlook

Despite legal restrictions, illegal gambling operations have persisted across the country for years.

Tourism remains a key driver of Thailand’s economy, and the administration forecasts 37 million foreign arrivals this year, approaching pre-pandemic record levels of nearly 40 million visitors.