Thailand Could Approve Casino Bill by Summer 2025
Thailand is advancing plans to legalize and regulate casino operations, with the government expressing confidence that a draft bill on entertainment complexes will become law by mid-2025. However, the introduction of any casino would still be years later.
The Government House of Thailand. (Source: ASEAN Now)
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:Officials have indicated that the legislation, aimed at establishing large-scale integrated resorts (IRs) with gaming facilities, has significant support and is expected to clear parliamentary hurdles within the next year. Secretary-General Prommin Lertsuridej stated that the law could be passed within six months, allowing preliminary steps to begin shortly thereafter to bring casino projects to fruition.
Related: Analysts Believe Thailand Casinos Could Outpace SingaporeThe draft bill is anticipated to receive Cabinet approval before the end of 2024, after which it will move through the legislative process, requiring three readings in both the House of Representatives and the Upper House. This process typically spans several months for each house, suggesting a detailed review and debate of the proposal. The government remains optimistic that these steps will be completed efficiently to meet the projected timeline.
The legislation outlines a framework for entertainment complexes to be operated by private entities with a minimum paid-up capital of at least TBH 10 billion (US$285 million). Under the proposed model, gaming areas within these integrated resorts would be limited to no more than 5% of the total project area, with the remaining space designated for complementary facilities such as hotels, entertainment venues, and retail offerings. The projects are envisioned as joint ventures between the government and private companies, likely adopting a concession-based model like the one used in Macau.
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Large Casino Operators Still Interested
Prommin highlighted strong interest from international casino operators, citing discussions with several prominent firms experienced in large-scale developments. Notable companies such as Las Vegas Sands, Genting Singapore, and MGM Resorts have already expressed interest in bidding for licenses. MGM Resorts has revealed that any bid for a license in Thailand would likely be made through its Macau subsidiary, MGM China.
While the specific number and locations of the proposed integrated resorts remain undetermined, recent reports suggest that up to five licenses could be issued, with two potentially located in Bangkok. These developments aim to capitalize on the city's status as a global tourism hub, leveraging its infrastructure and accessibility to attract both domestic and international visitors. The government is positioning the legalization of casinos as part of a broader strategy to enhance Thailand's tourism sector and generate significant economic benefits.
According to a recent analysis by Maybank, the first IR wouldn’t likely be ready until early 2029, provided the legislative and construction timelines proceed without major delays.
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