In a move to address public concerns over gambling addiction, Thai lawmakers have proposed stringent entry requirements for locals wishing to access the country’s forthcoming casinos. The draft legislation mandates that Thai nationals must possess a minimum of 50 million baht (approximately $1.5 million) in fixed deposits for at least six months prior to gaining entry. Additionally, residents would be required to pay an entry fee of up to 5,000 baht per visit.
These measures aim to restrict casino access to the wealthiest segment of the population, effectively excluding a significant portion of Thai citizens. Analysts suggest that such limitations could deter potential investors, as the domestic market would be considerably narrowed. Gaming consultant Daniel Cheng noted that these stringent requirements might render Thai casinos similar to those in South Korea, which primarily cater to foreigners due to restrictive local entry policies.
The proposed entertainment complex bill, approved by the cabinet in January and currently under review by the Council of State, is designed to attract foreign investment and boost international tourism. Council Secretary-General Pakorn Nilprapunt emphasized the focus on creating man-made tourism attractions, with gambling being a secondary aspect. He stated that imposing strict measures could prevent locals from developing gambling addictions.
Despite the potential economic benefits, public opinion in Thailand remains largely opposed to the legalization of casinos. A recent poll by the National Institute of Development Administration found that 59% of respondents disagreed with the establishment of entertainment complexes featuring casinos. Concerns center around the potential exacerbation of social issues, including gambling addiction and increased household debt.
The draft legislation is currently undergoing public hearings and will require parliamentary approval before becoming law. As Thailand seeks to revitalize its tourism industry post-pandemic, the balance between economic incentives and social welfare remains a focal point of the ongoing debate.
