The draft legislation concerning entertainment complexes is anticipated to be submitted to the cabinet for review within this year, as stated by Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat.
Following cabinet approval, the administration plans to forward the draft for parliamentary consideration. The House of Representatives is scheduled to reconvene for its regular session from mid-December through April of the following year.
Mr. Julapun mentioned that this draft law would mark Thailand’s first move to legalize casinos. It recently underwent a public hearing, which is constitutionally required, and garnered 82% support from participants.
According to a study by the Fiscal Policy Office, the establishment of entertainment complexes could attract an additional 5-20% of foreign tourists, potentially increasing their average spending from 40,000 baht to 60,000 baht per visit.
These complexes are expected to boost the Thai economy, benefiting both the construction phase—which will require substantial investment to create comprehensive entertainment venues—and the long-term economic growth post-completion. Additionally, they are poised to create job opportunities for local residents.
“I hope as many Thais as possible will be employed in the entertainment complexes, which may necessitate training to equip them with the required skills,” he said.
For private sector investors interested in these complexes, the draft law requires a minimum registered capital of 10 billion baht. Mr. Julapun added that the government will evaluate what companies can contribute and the types of projects the state aims to develop as artificial tourist attractions.
For Thai nationals wishing to enter a casino, the draft legislation sets an entry fee cap of 5,000 baht per visit. The concession period for the complexes includes licenses that will be valid for 30 years, with the option to renew in 10-year increments. The license fee is proposed at 5 billion baht, accompanied by an annual fee of 1 billion baht.
