Parliament Postpones Casino Bill Debate
Thailand’s Entertainment Complex Bill, which includes plans to legalize casino resorts, won’t reach parliament until at least July. Even then, lawmakers may not prioritize it, according to Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun.
The delay came after parliament shifted focus to more urgent matters, including Thailand’s response to a 36% tariff hike from the United States on Thai exports. Lawmakers were initially set to debate the casino bill this week.
Casino Legislation Faces Strong Opposition
Wisut emphasized that the bill hasn’t been canceled—just delayed. However, he admitted there’s no guarantee the topic will top the agenda once the next parliamentary session begins in three months.
“Differences of opinion are normal in a democracy, and it’s essential to build public understanding,” Wisut said in response to growing opposition.
Anti-gambling groups and opposition parties have stepped up their efforts to block the bill, demanding the government withdraw it entirely.
Coalition Shows Signs of Strain
Tensions inside the ruling coalition are also rising. Reports suggest internal disagreement, especially after former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra—father of current PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra—allegedly warned coalition members to support the bill or risk expulsion.
Senior figures in the Bhumjaithai Party responded with thinly veiled criticism. Some even suggested their party might leave the coalition if Thaksin follows through on his threat.
PM Paetongtarn Defends Bill’s Intentions
Despite mounting criticism, Prime Minister Paetongtarn continues to champion the bill. She pushed back against claims that it would turn Thailand into a gambling hub.
“The casino will only take up 10% of the entertainment complex,” she explained. “This doesn’t mean we’re allowing casinos everywhere. That’s a false narrative.”
Her remarks aimed to ease public concerns while underlining the government’s vision for integrated entertainment destinations that go beyond gambling.
Next Steps Remain Unclear
With opposition intensifying and coalition unity being tested, the casino bill faces an uncertain path. While proponents argue it could boost tourism and economic growth, critics worry it may fuel addiction and crime.
For now, the bill’s fate remains in limbo. Lawmakers will revisit the topic when parliament reconvenes in July, but its placement on the agenda will depend on how the political landscape evolves.
As the debate unfolds, Thailand’s plan for legal casinos continues to stir both hope and controversy.
