Despite amendments to the Entertainment Complex bill, new technical provisions have been introduced, such as limiting casino space to 10% of an entertainment venue, according to Atavit Suwanpakdee, chairman of an advisory board to the Minister of Industry. However, he noted that it remains unclear how many locations will be selected and in which regions.
Atavit expressed his support for the establishment of full-service entertainment complexes but emphasized the need for clear regulations on their size and location. He stressed that if these complexes are permitted across the country, preventive measures must be in place to address issues such as gambling addiction and other social concerns.
“Drafting a law like this is challenging because it can lead to social problems,” he said.
According to the Council’s website, an online public hearing on the bill will be held from February 15 to March 1.
The bill outlines that an entertainment complex may include hotels, shopping malls, theatres, meeting venues, and a casino. Additionally, it mandates that a casino cannot occupy more than 10% of the total land of an entertainment complex. If housed inside a building, it must not exceed 10% of the building’s total area.
Concerns have been raised about potential risks associated with casino operations. Research cited in discussions suggests that some casinos have ties to human trafficking and forced labor. Critics argue that in developing countries with high levels of corruption and weak law enforcement, casinos could facilitate money laundering, violent crimes, and other illicit activities, ultimately deterring foreign investment and hindering economic growth.
Opposition to the bill has also come from various activist groups. On Monday, the Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand, Thai People Protecting the Monarchy, and the Dhamma Warrior Legal Foundation submitted a petition against the bill at the Council’s head office on Phra Arthit Road. Ratchani Sungthong, Assistant Secretary-General of the Council of State, received the petition.
Pichit Chaimongkol, a protest leader, stated that the groups firmly oppose the establishment of casinos in Thailand. He argued that weak law enforcement would allow loopholes for money laundering and other illegal activities.
“No matter how well the law is written, Thai laws are not strictly enforced. If this bill becomes law, casinos could be exploited for shady businesses,” he said. “We will continue to protest against it and will take our objections to Government House if necessary.”
The bill also stipulates that casinos must have designated entrances separated from other businesses. Strict identification protocols will be enforced, requiring patrons to present passports, national identity cards, or other official documents before entry and exit.
Thanakorn Khomkrit, secretary-general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, highlighted concerns over the bill’s lack of governance and oversight.
“Amending this bill feels like writing a blank cheque,” he said. “I question whether the Council is ensuring strict or lax regulations in the law-making process.”
Chittawan Chanagul, an economics lecturer at Kasetsart University, warned that studies indicate casinos in developing countries often lead to social and economic problems.
“In communities where casinos operate, we often see an increase in family breakdowns, gambling addiction, and crime,” she said, referencing a study on Southeast Asian countries with legalized casinos.
She cited examples from the Philippines, where legalized casinos have been linked to serious crimes, including robberies, murders, and extortion. “These cases highlight the potential negative ripple effects of legalizing casinos,” she added.
As the debate continues, concerns over governance, social impact, and enforcement remain central to discussions surrounding the bill’s future.
