The legislative process of Thailand's "Entertainment Complex Act" is currently on hold, but industry experts point out that with changes in Thailand's political situation, the bill may still be brought back to the agenda in the future. Lau Kok Keng, a gambling law expert and partner at Rajah & Tann Asia, stated at the Lisbon SBC Summit that the development of Thailand's political situation will directly affect the fate of this gambling industry-related bill.
After the former Prime Minister Paetongtarn was removed by the Constitutional Court, the new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has promised to dissolve the parliament and hold new elections within four months. The changing political environment brings uncertainty to the future of the bill. Lau Kok Keng believes that if the Pheu Thai Party returns to power, the possibility of reviving the bill is higher; even the Bhumjaithai Party, which originally opposed casinos, might reconsider its stance due to economic and tourism pressures.
In recent years, Thailand's tourism industry has faced the challenge of a decrease in the number of Chinese tourists, and some illegal gambling activities have led to capital outflow, affecting the local economy. Experts point out that if the government continues to lack action, the underground gambling market may further expand, leading to tax revenue losses and a reduction in job opportunities. This economic background makes the discussion of the Entertainment Complex Act not only a matter of policy choice but also closely related to Thailand's economic development.
Although the bill has not entered the first reading stage in the parliament, according to Thailand's legislative procedures, a new government can still propose the bill again within 60 days after its establishment. This means that the final outcome of the bill is still undetermined. Industry observers believe that Thailand's gambling and tourism industries are at a critical juncture in development, and policy decisions will have far-reaching impacts.
Currently, the Thai government has not made a clear statement about the future direction of the bill. The industry will continue to monitor the development of the political situation and its potential impact on related policies.
