Thailand Removes $1.5M Casino Deposit Rule for Local Gamblers
Thailand has revised its proposed casino legislation and removed the requirement for local gamblers to maintain a fixed deposit of THB50 million ($1.5 million).
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:Players Must Show Three Years of Tax Filings
As reported by the Bangkok Post, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira explained that the amendment followed a review by the Council of State, which made adjustments to better align the bill with its intended objectives and public concerns.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed that instead of the initial deposit requirement, Thai citizens must now show proof of tax filings for the past three years to gain casino entry. However, the entrance fee remains unchanged at THB5,000 ($147). He noted that only around 10,000 bank accounts in Thailand contain at least THB50 million, making the original rule unrealistic and likely to push gambling toward illegal alternatives.
Online Gambling and Streaming Banned
In a separate report, an unnamed government source revealed that the bill includes a strict ban on online gambling and the live-streaming of casino games. The measures are designed to prevent individuals from participating in gambling activities remotely.
The bill, initially approved on January 13, is set for cabinet review on March 11.
Among its key provisions, the legislation specifies that gambling within entertainment complexes will be governed under the new law and replace existing anti-gambling regulations. It also mandates identity verification for all visitors, requiring a passport or national ID card.
The Council of State returned the bill to the government on February 28 for further revisions, and it remains uncertain whether the cabinet will grant final approval.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has expressed openness to public input on casino development and acknowledged that the concept is new for Thailand. However, she stressed that land-based casinos would be just one component of a larger entertainment complex that includes various businesses.
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Ongoing Opposition to Casino Resorts
The government has also spoken of the importance of addressing potential risks and social impacts and said that it aims to balance economic benefits with responsible management of gambling-related concerns. Officials believe these entertainment complexes will play an important part in shaping Thailand’s economic future.
Despite the plans, opposition remains strong. On Monday, multiple protest groups, including the Network of Students and People for Thailand’s Reform, the Center of People for the Protection of the Monarchy, and the Dharma Army, gathered near Government House in Bangkok. They submitted a letter to the prime minister opposing the legislation, arguing that it would be detrimental to society, national values, and religious principles.
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