The Thai government is reviewing a draft bill centered on the legalization of casinos. Prime Minister Seta Tawisin officially expressed support for legalization, stating that it would help increase tax revenue.
According to CNBC on the 29th, Prime Minister Seta posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, "We can regulate the grey economy (activities that are legally unconfirmed or not properly reported for tax purposes) and collect taxes," adding, "We do not want to promote gambling, but rather want to use gambling supervision as an investment to create jobs," expressing support for legalization. He also said, "The cabinet must submit the draft law to the parliament for review."
This statement followed the approval of a special committee's research report on casino establishment by the Thai House of Representatives late the previous day. The report includes provisions allowing casinos as a means to boost investment and tourism. In effect, the approval of the research report marks the beginning of the process to promote casino legalization. The Thai government will decide whether to permit casinos based on this report and proceed with related legislative procedures.
CNBC reported, "Many in the industry believe that casino legalization will be very successful in attracting foreign tourists," and added, "It could compete with Macau, where legal casino gambling is possible."
This is not the first time casino legalization has been discussed in Thailand. So-called underground casinos are also in operation. However, legalization was not pursued under previous governments due to public opposition and other factors. The House of Representatives approved a related report in January last year, but it was nullified due to the expiration of the term and the formation of a new government. The current House was newly formed in May last year.
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