Thailand Government Postpones Review of Proposed Casino Laws
The Thai government has decided to delay its final review of a proposed entertainment complex bill that includes provisions for legal casinos. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Tuesday that the Cabinet would not proceed with its scheduled review of the bill until all details had been thoroughly examined and all relevant stakeholders had been appropriately considered.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:During a press conference at Government House, the Prime Minister emphasized that there was no urgency in pushing the bill through. She stated that key aspects of the proposal, including a requirement that local players must have a minimum of THB50 million (US$1.5 million) in their bank accounts to enter casinos, had not yet been finalized. She reiterated that careful review was necessary before moving forward.
Related: Thailand Keeps Wealthy Requirement for Local Gamblers in Casino BillThe provision requiring local gamblers to maintain a significant bank balance has drawn considerable attention. Industry analysts and investors have expressed concern over its potential impact.
Some stakeholders have warned that such a restrictive financial requirement could discourage potential operators from entering the Thai market. Others have indicated that while the rule may not completely deter investment, it would significantly influence financial commitments and overall interest. A proposed minimum investment requirement of $3 billion has been deemed unrealistic under these circumstances.
Despite concerns from investors and stakeholders, government officials have given mixed signals regarding the likelihood of the THB50 million bank requirement being approved. The Council of State initially recommended the provision, but government representatives recently suggested that it may not survive Cabinet scrutiny.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated last week that the amendment would remain in the bill when it moves to parliament for further review. He added that lawmakers would have the authority to make changes and that the government was considering a less restrictive alternative, which would require Thai citizens to provide proof of income tax payments to the Revenue Department for three consecutive years.
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Delay May Indicate Response to Opposition
Other provisions within the draft bill include a proposed THB5,000 (US$150) entry fee for local residents who wish to access casinos. Additionally, the initial proposal to limit casino space to 5% of a resort's total floor area has been revised, allowing up to 10% of the resort to be designated for gambling. However, authorities have yet to clarify what qualifies as casino space under the new framework.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed her position that all aspects of the bill and its associated regulations must be thoroughly reviewed before it advances. She stressed that the Ministry should take the time necessary to examine all details, particularly since Thailand has never had legalized casinos. She also underscored the importance of gathering opinions from all stakeholders, including those who oppose the legalization of gambling.
As debate over the bill continues, anti-casino activists have made their stance clear. Reports indicate that protesters have set up encampments outside Government House, voicing their opposition to the proposed legislation. The Prime Minister acknowledged their concerns and assured the public that their opinions would be taken into account before any final decisions were made.
Should the bill ultimately pass, the government has committed to providing a comprehensive explanation to the public on the reasoning behind its approval. The delay in Cabinet review suggests that further discussions and adjustments may be expected before the legislation reaches its final form.
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