Thailand’s likely to implement tougher casino rules: What tourists need to know – ET TravelWorld

Thailand is inching closer to legalising casinos within integrated “entertainment complexes,” but the latest proposal comes associated with stricter rules aimed at curbing the risks of problem gambling. The revised draft bill has introduced new regulations that may shape the future of gambling in the country, raising the question: will these tougher measures deter tourists from flocking to Thailand for gaming?

The proposed amendments would impose strict disclosure requirements on local gamblers and restrict casinos to no more than 10% of the entertainment complex’s total size. These intricate rules are intended to make sure that casinos are controlled within the bigger establishment, which needs to have at least four other establishments, such as hotels, amusement parks, or yacht clubs.

The division of casinos from the rest of the complex, which would include designating separate gates and entrances to keep the gaming section separate from other attractions, is one obvious change. These steps are likely to change how casinos function by introducing other forms of entertainment and creating a more controlled gaming environment.

The Thai government plans to enact the aforementioned adjustment this year in an effort to boost tax revenue and foreign investment. According to reports, international gaming behemoths like Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd. and MGM Resorts International are considering possible business opportunities in Thailand. If the casino business is completely developed, Thailand might improve its rank and climb to the world’s third, just behind Macau and Las Vegas, with an estimated USD9.1 billion in gaming revenue.

Although there is still a lot of criticism to the measure, it has the potential to greatly improve Thailand’s standing in the international gaming market. Addiction to gambling is a major public concern, particularly for Thai citizens. The government has responded to this by enacting a law that requires residents to fulfil stringent financial requirements before they may attend casinos, such as demonstrating a minimum six-month bank balance of 50 million baht ( USD1.5 million).

The rules are less stringent for foreign visitors because there is only a 20-year-old minimum age restriction to enter casino zones. These special laws aim to control domestic gambling while permitting foreign tourists to take advantage of Thailand’s developing gaming industry.However, it’s unclear whether these regulations will affect tourism. On one hand, they could attract high-end international gamblers, but on the other, they may alienate domestic players, especially if locals find the barriers to entry too high. With the country’s economy already benefiting from its status as a tourism hub, Thailand’s gaming future remains uncertain as these policies take shape.

The road to legalised casinos will continue to be a contentious issue as the bill moves forward into public hearings and then to the cabinet for approval. This will raise concerns about the harmony between regulating gambling and preserving Thailand’s appeal as a world travel destination, in addition to the potential economic benefits.