Thailand's Entertainment Complex Bill Poised for Parliamentary Debate
Cabinet-approved bill to be discussed by Parliament, with support from tourism operators and concerns from activists.
Thailand's Parliament is expected to consider the highly anticipated entertainment complex bill, which includes provisions for a limited number of casinos, by April 9, 2025, according to chief government whip Wisut Chainarun.
The bill, recently approved by the cabinet on March 27, aims to bolster the nation's economy by promoting tourism beyond seasonal fluctuations.
Wisut indicated that if the bill is not submitted for review on April 3, it will likely be up for discussion on the later date.
He emphasized that there would be sufficient time allocated for debate within the House, with indications that coalition MPs are likely to support the legislation.
In Phuket, tourism business leaders have expressed enthusiasm about the proposed bill, which they believe could stimulate economic growth.
Thanet Tantipiriyakit, president of the Phuket Tourist Association, noted that a world-class entertainment venue focusing on a variety of attractions—excluding casinos—might appeal more to family-oriented visitors.
He suggested alternatives such as a modern water park, an international-standard sports complex, a cultural arts center, or a theme park as potential projects to attract high-quality tourists.
Currently, tourists to Phuket typically stay for five to eight days, primarily drawn by the island's renowned beaches.
Thanet mentioned that a well-designed entertainment complex could encourage longer stays and greater spending, as tourists who visit casinos often do not significantly contribute to the local economy outside of the gambling premises.
The government envisions the entertainment complex as a multifaceted project with approximately 10% of its space allocated for casinos.
It is anticipated to generate between 119 billion and 283 billion baht annually and increase the influx of foreign travelers to Thailand by an estimated 5% to 10%.
However, the bill has met with opposition from various quarters.
Political activist Jatuporn Prompan organized a protest at Government House on March 30, cautioning against the social issues associated with legalized gambling, including increased crime and familial disruptions.
He plans to invite a monk to deliver a sermon on the adverse effects of gambling for government officials to consider.
Overall, the proposal stands at a critical juncture as supporters advocate for its economic potential while opponents voice concerns about its social implications.
The bill, recently approved by the cabinet on March 27, aims to bolster the nation's economy by promoting tourism beyond seasonal fluctuations.
Wisut indicated that if the bill is not submitted for review on April 3, it will likely be up for discussion on the later date.
He emphasized that there would be sufficient time allocated for debate within the House, with indications that coalition MPs are likely to support the legislation.
In Phuket, tourism business leaders have expressed enthusiasm about the proposed bill, which they believe could stimulate economic growth.
Thanet Tantipiriyakit, president of the Phuket Tourist Association, noted that a world-class entertainment venue focusing on a variety of attractions—excluding casinos—might appeal more to family-oriented visitors.
He suggested alternatives such as a modern water park, an international-standard sports complex, a cultural arts center, or a theme park as potential projects to attract high-quality tourists.
Currently, tourists to Phuket typically stay for five to eight days, primarily drawn by the island's renowned beaches.
Thanet mentioned that a well-designed entertainment complex could encourage longer stays and greater spending, as tourists who visit casinos often do not significantly contribute to the local economy outside of the gambling premises.
The government envisions the entertainment complex as a multifaceted project with approximately 10% of its space allocated for casinos.
It is anticipated to generate between 119 billion and 283 billion baht annually and increase the influx of foreign travelers to Thailand by an estimated 5% to 10%.
However, the bill has met with opposition from various quarters.
Political activist Jatuporn Prompan organized a protest at Government House on March 30, cautioning against the social issues associated with legalized gambling, including increased crime and familial disruptions.
He plans to invite a monk to deliver a sermon on the adverse effects of gambling for government officials to consider.
Overall, the proposal stands at a critical juncture as supporters advocate for its economic potential while opponents voice concerns about its social implications.
