Study Shows Only a Few Casino Operators Interested in Thailand
Thailand's emerging plans to legalize casino operations within large-scale entertainment complexes appear to have attracted limited interest from international operators. This is according to a detailed analysis by Inside Asian Gaming(IAG).
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The study, which involved outreach to 15 globally recognized gaming companies, concluded that only six operators currently demonstrate a genuine likelihood of pursuing a bid to enter the Thai market. These include three based in Macau, two from the US, and one from elsewhere in Asia.
Related: Thailand Narrows List of Possible Casino SitesIAG's investigation highlights the cautious stance of many gaming companies, some of which promptly ruled themselves out of consideration. Others conveyed that while they are monitoring developments, their priority remains with existing investments and projects. This measured response indicates a more restrained industry sentiment toward the Thai opportunity than previously anticipated, despite the country's substantial market potential.
The study explores the ongoing legislative review in Thailand and assesses how key players in the casino industry are reacting to the proposed framework. The final version of the legislation, which must be ratified by the Thai monarchy, will be pivotal in determining the level of operator participation. Analysts suggest that the robustness of the law, particularly in comparison with international standards such as those in Nevada, could significantly influence investor confidence.
Industry observers also point to the recent regulatory experience in Japan as a factor influencing operator hesitation. Several companies that previously invested heavily in pursuit of Japanese integrated resort licenses have since adopted a more conservative approach to new markets.
While Japan once attracted interest from over 20 global operators, only one integrated resort project was eventually confirmed. This history of heightened expectations followed by limited opportunity has left some operators reluctant to commit prematurely to the Thai market without greater legislative clarity.
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New Studies Confirm Limited Public Support
Beyond the industry's perspective, public sentiment within Thailand reflects additional layers of complexity surrounding the legalization of casinos. A recent Nida Poll conducted between 18 and 20 March surveyed over 1,000 Thai adults on their views regarding the proposed entertainment complex bill.
A significant portion of respondents expressed apprehension about the societal implications of legalizing casinos, with 32.60% identifying potential moral degradation and risks to national security as primary concerns. This mirrors previous studies that also found limited support for casino gambling in the country.
Economic skepticism was also prevalent, with 30.23% of participants questioning whether legal casinos would deliver the promised economic benefits. Furthermore, 28.09% voiced concern about gambling addiction and sought clarity on the government's plans to mitigate such risks. These findings underscore a divide between the economic aspirations of policymakers and the reservations held by segments of the public.
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