Thailand to Build Casino Complexes to Boost Tourism
### Key Points at a Glance
Thailand is planning to introduce entertainment complexes with integrated casinos. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has confirmed that licenses to operate these casinos will only be granted through an open bidding process. The goal is to boost tourism and increase tax revenue. The proposed locations are expected to feature extensive facilities, with gambling occupying only a small portion of the space. However, critics warn of potential social impacts.
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Open Bidding Process for Casino Licenses
Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister of Thailand and father of the current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has reiterated his support for the legalization of casinos within entertainment complexes. In a speech in Nakhon Phanom, he stated that the allocation of licenses will only occur through a transparent bidding process. Interested companies will need to demonstrate how their projects will promote tourism and contribute to increased tax revenue.
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Proposed Locations and Requirements
The Thai government has given preliminary approval to the draft of the so-called Entertainment Complex Bill. This bill is expected to be submitted to the House of Representatives for review within the next six months. Two potential locations for the complexes are already under discussion: Khlong Toei in Bangkok and U-Tapao near Pattaya. Both sites are considered strategically attractive for investors.
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Each location will need to cover at least 48 hectares and include a variety of facilities, such as:
– Hotels with a minimum of 5,000 rooms
– International convention centers
– Concert and event halls
– Shopping malls and duty-free shops
– Amusement parks
Thaksin emphasized that gambling should occupy less than 10% of the total area.
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Economic and Social Impacts
According to Thaksin, the planned entertainment complexes could create approximately 20,000 jobs per location. Salaries are expected to start at a minimum of 20,000 Baht (approximately 580 USD) per month. Proponents see this as an opportunity to stimulate the economy and strengthen tourism.
However, criticism has come from conservative voices such as Alongkorn Ponlaboot of the Democrat Party, who described gambling as a “vice.” Despite these concerns, Thaksin sees no need for a national referendum on the issue.
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Our Assessment
The proposed entertainment complexes have the potential to significantly boost Thailand’s economy and tourism industry. The combination of extensive leisure offerings and a controlled gambling area could attract international investors and visitors. However, it remains to be seen how the government will address the social and ethical concerns. The open allocation of licenses is a step toward transparency, but the success of the project will largely depend on its implementation and long-term effects.
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