Thai Senate rejects casino bill, warns of long-term consequences
Concerns raised over money laundering, social harm and public trust erosion. By Gambling Insider
Key points:
Paetongtarn-backed bill officially dismissed by upper house
Senators cite risk to national interest and social order
Public referendum recommended before any legalisation move
The Thai Senate has officially rejected the draft bill proposing the establishment of integrated entertainment complexes with casino operations, citing a wide range of long-term risks that could outweigh potential economic benefits.
As reported by Bangkok Post, the bill was introduced during the tenure of former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. It underwent a detailed evaluation by a Senate committee chaired by Dr Veerapun Suvannamai, with discussions led by Deputy Senate President Gen Kriengkrai Srirak.
The committee concluded that the plan, if enacted, could lead to increased money laundering, undermine social stability, and diminish public trust in state institutions. It recommended that any future consideration of casino legalisation should include transparent public discussion and a national referendum.
Senator Sornchat Vichaya Suwannaprom proposed forming a new task force to explore entertainment complexes that exclude casino elements or limit access strictly to foreign nationals. He pointed to international practices such as those in Sydney, where entry to casinos is restricted to tourists.
Senator Chinachot Saengsang raised concerns about the structure of the bill, stating that it attempted to portray casinos as secondary features when they were in fact the central focus. He warned that any future inclusion of such proposals in government policy platforms may erode public trust.
Good to know: Some senators suggested limited-entry gambling zones or online-only models as controlled alternatives
Senator Sitthikorn Thongyos criticised recent trends toward the normalisation of gambling in Thai society, citing the introduction of retirement lotteries and calls to reclassify poker. He urged the new administration to drop the bill altogether.
With Parliament expected to dissolve within four months due to an inter-party agreement, Dr Veerapun concluded that any political party intending to pursue casino legalisation must declare that position clearly before the next general election.
The Bill looked likely to pass for some time, with Presidential support and industry optimism suggesting Thailand would join the likes of South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, the Philippines and Macau as a big-time land-based casino player.
Ever since Paetongtarn's removal as Prime Minister, however, the casino bill looked less and less likely to become a reality. And thus it proved.
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