Public backlash builds as demonstrators demand full withdrawal of casino legislation
Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Bangkok this week to oppose a proposed bill that would pave the way for legal casinos in Thailand. The controversial legislation, pitched as a plan for new “entertainment complexes,” has sparked outrage among several civic and religious groups.
Led by the Student and People Network for Thailand Reform, the People’s Centre to Protect the Monarchy, and the Dharmma Army, around 400 demonstrators marched from Government House to Parliament on Thursday morning. Their demand: scrap the bill entirely.
Protesters Reject “Entertainment Complex” Label
Despite its title, protesters argue the bill’s real aim is to legalize gambling, a move they say clashes with the moral foundations of Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity. They warned that legal casinos would fuel social problems, not economic growth.
“We came here to protect our values,” said Pichit Chaimongkol, a key protest leader. “No religion condones gambling. This is not just about policy—it’s about principles.”
Pushback on Government’s Public Support Claims
Deputy House Speaker Pichet Chuamuangphan accepted a formal letter from the protesters and confirmed that the bill would not be added to the House agenda this week. Still, protest leaders remained defiant, vowing to continue their campaign until the legislation is completely scrapped.
Warong Dechgitvigrom, leader of the Thai Pakdee Party, questioned the legitimacy of a government survey claiming 80% public support for the proposal. His group has collected over 100,000 signatures in opposition.
“The government’s numbers don’t reflect reality,” he said. “There’s strong public resistance, and we have the signatures to prove it.”
Tensions Rise Over Religious and Regional Sensitivities
Former red-shirt leader Jatuporn Promphan warned that pushing the bill forward could spark unrest in Thailand’s Muslim-majority southern provinces.
“Why does the Prime Minister want to become the head of a nationwide gambling network?” he said, criticizing the government for prioritizing this legislation while communities are still reeling from a recent earthquake.
He also dismissed reassurances from the House Speaker, insisting that anything short of total rejection would not satisfy the public.
Online Gambling Still Thrives Despite Ban
While Thailand maintains a strict ban on most forms of gambling, online platforms continue to operate in a legal grey area. Many Thai users access offshore betting sites, and despite regular police crackdowns, enforcement remains inconsistent. Critics argue that the government’s failure to tackle online gambling makes its push for legal land-based casinos even more questionable.
Government Aims for Boost in Tourism and Economic Growth
Public Support for Casino Complex
Thailand’s ambitious plan to develop a mega entertainment complex featuring casinos is moving forward, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. In a recent statement reported by local media, Amornvivat confirmed that 80% of participants in a public hearing voiced their approval of the project.
This entertainment complex is set to attract Thai gamblers, who are expected to make up 90% of the customer base, while also boosting tourism revenues by an estimated THB 12 billion (roughly $340 million). The government hopes this project will stimulate Thailand’s economy and further strengthen its tourism industry.
Casino Bill Progresses
The push to legalise casinos in Thailand is not new. Efforts were previously backed by former Prime Minister Thavasin, and the current government, including Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s father, has shown strong support for continuing the initiative.
The “Casino Bill,” released for public feedback in August, lays out a 30-year licensing framework for casino operators. Casinos would need to pay THB 5 billion for the initial licence, with an annual renewal fee of THB 1 billion, and a 17% tax on gaming revenue. Thai citizens entering the casinos would be required to pay a fee not exceeding THB 5,000.
Entertainment Complex Act Nears Completion
The Finance Ministry has completed the draft of the Entertainment Complex Act, which includes casinos as a central feature. In line with Thailand’s constitution, the draft will undergo a final public hearing before being presented to the cabinet for approval.
The government envisions that these integrated entertainment complexes will be a cornerstone for driving domestic investment and tourism growth. The draft outlines stringent regulations for operators, including regular assessments every five years. After 30 years, licences could be renewed for an additional decade.
Economic Potential and Regional Competition
Thailand’s vision for the casino complex is to compete with established players in the global entertainment industry. Macau and Las Vegas currently lead the market, generating $32 billion and $30 billion in annual revenue, respectively. Singapore, which recently joined the casino complex scene, brings in $2 billion each year. With Japan planning three major projects, Thailand is racing to establish its presence and capture a share of the estimated $2.2 trillion global entertainment complex market by 2028.
The government estimates the project will generate at least THB 12 billion in tax revenue during its first year of operation, providing a significant boost to the national economy.
Opposition Voices Concerns
However, not all parties are in favour. The opposition Thai Sang Thai Party, led by spokesman Pariyes Angkurakitti, has criticised the project, citing concerns over lax law enforcement, which they fear could hinder effective regulation of the casino industry.
Next Steps
With five potential locations for the complex, including two in Bangkok, and others in the Eastern Economic Corridor, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, the government is positioning the project as a major economic driver. As discussions continue, the outcome of the final public hearing and cabinet decision will determine the future of legalised gambling in Thailand.
Wynn Resorts has set its sights on an ambitious global expansion, with new projects in the United Arab Emirates, potential developments in Las Vegas, and exploratory ventures in Thailand. CEO Craig Billings recently shared these strategic plans during an earnings call, highlighting the company’s growth trajectory and investment strategies.
Bold Move into the UAE: Wynn Al Marjan Project
Wynn Resorts is making significant headway with its $3.9 billion Wynn Al Marjan project in the UAE. Located on Al Marjan Island, this integrated resort is expected to open its doors in 2027. The company has acquired 155 acres of land, with over 70 acres designated for future development opportunities.
Craig Billings expressed strong confidence in the UAE market, noting the rapid progress of construction, which has now reached the 15th floor. He highlighted the strategic importance of the newly established General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), which has already issued the UAE’s first lottery license. This regulatory clarity is seen as a pivotal step in fostering a robust gaming environment in the region.
Evaluating Expansion in Las Vegas and New York
Back in the United States, Wynn Resorts is carefully considering how to best utilize its existing land in Las Vegas. Billings emphasized that expansion is inevitable, aiming to enhance their offerings in this iconic entertainment hub. In New York, however, potential projects are still under evaluation, dependent on future tax rates and regulatory conditions.
Exploring Opportunities in Thailand
Wynn Resorts is also closely monitoring the developments in Thailand, where the government is progressing towards introducing regulated casino gaming. Billings noted the legislative momentum and expressed optimism about potential investments, pending a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework. Thailand’s well-established tourism infrastructure and service culture make it an attractive market for Wynn’s integrated resort developments.
Strategic Diversification and Global Leadership
Wynn Resorts’ strategic geographical diversification and investment in emerging markets underscore its commitment to maintaining a leading position in the global gaming and hospitality industry. With ongoing projects and new markets on the horizon, Wynn aims to continue setting industry standards and delivering exceptional experiences to its clientele worldwide.
As Wynn Resorts navigates these new ventures, its focus on innovation and excellence remains unwavering, promising exciting developments in the years to come.
Regulatory Discussions Advance
The Thai government is contemplating imposing a 5% cap on the space allocated for casinos within entertainment complexes. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, who is at the forefront of these deliberations, highlighted the plan during discussions about the broader integration of casinos into the nation’s tourism and entertainment sectors.
Evaluating Casino Resort Feasibility
In recent developments, Thailand’s cabinet endorsed a proposal to assess the feasibility of establishing casino resorts in the country. The Ministry of Finance has been tasked with this evaluation, reflecting a significant step in the country’s approach to gambling and entertainment law reform. Minister Amornvivat indicated the need for an extended review period to ensure a comprehensive analysis, collaborating with various government agencies.
Balancing Regulation with Growth
The proposal includes restricting casino floor areas to a maximum of 5% of the total space in any entertainment complex. This initiative, according to Amornvivat, aims to balance development with prudent regulatory oversight. It reflects a cautious but progressive approach to potentially introducing gambling into Thailand’s mainstream entertainment and tourism industries.
Focus on Impact and Legal Framework
The House committee led by Amornvivat is investigating the potential impacts on the economy, society, and legal structures. Their studies are pivotal in forming a governance framework that supports economic growth while mitigating the negative consequences associated with gambling. This includes establishing a fair tax structure competitive with regional rates and creating funds to counteract gambling-related social issues.
Future Projections and International Comparisons
Amornvivat’s team is also comparing Thailand’s proposed casino developments with international standards, noting that their envisioned tax rates are favorably lower than those in neighboring regions. This strategic positioning could enhance Thailand’s appeal as a premier gaming destination in Southeast Asia. Additionally, a recent report suggests that Thailand could see its first integrated resorts by 2029, potentially outpacing Japan in entering the casino tourism market.
Informed Decision Making
The comprehensive review and collaborative efforts aim to ensure that any decision to integrate casinos within entertainment complexes is well-informed and considers all societal impacts. The ongoing studies and discussions are crucial for crafting legislation that supports sustainable development in Thailand’s entertainment and tourism sectors.
These steps represent a significant turning point in how Thailand manages and integrates gambling and entertainment, potentially setting a regional benchmark in casino regulation and development.
