According to the Bangkok Post, amidst the controversy surrounding the "Comprehensive Entertainment Center Act" (including the legalization of casinos) possibly facing obstacles in parliament, the Thai government is quietly shifting its focus towards promoting online gambling legislation. Despite the widespread controversy sparked by the casino legalization issue due to political, social, and religious resistance, another potentially more impactful change is quietly progressing.
The report indicates that the Thai government is accelerating the revision of the Gambling Act, which has been in use since 1935, and is simultaneously adjusting regulations related to the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society to pave the way for the regulation and legalization of online gambling. Some of the revised content will provide a legal basis for online betting activities for locally and government-approved events such as boxing and football.
Since the beginning of the year, the Ministry of Interior and the Digital Ministry have organized several public hearings, with the latest draft version soliciting public opinions in January and February, attracting over 4300 participants, 60% of whom support the amendment. This online gambling legislation draft is expected to be submitted to parliament for consideration in June. As this issue has not sparked significant controversy and has not faced opposition within the coalition government, it is considered more likely to pass smoothly than the casino act.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, and leader of the Proud Party, Anutin, has publicly expressed support for the amendment. His stance aligns with that of former Prime Minister Thaksin, who had previously pointed out at a business forum that legalizing online gambling could not only effectively combat underground gambling but also generate substantial tax revenue.
However, Thai media warns that although public attention is still focused on casino legislation, online gambling reform could have profound social impacts. If not thoroughly deliberated and debated, it could lead to unexpected negative consequences.
