Thailand is considering the establishment of a new casino entertainment complex, with hopes of attracting local residents as its primary customers. The country’s Finance Ministry predicts that up to 90% of visitors to the proposed casino will be locals, signaling a potentially lucrative market for the gambling industry in Thailand.
Despite the association of Las Vegas with gambling, Thailand aims to carve out its own niche in the casino industry. The proposed entertainment complex project, which includes a casino, is expected to draw primarily local customers, with only a small percentage of foreign tourists participating in casino gambling. The success of this venture hinges on the passing of a draft law for the entertainment complex, which is currently undergoing public hearings.
Support for the establishment of a casino in Thailand comes from influential figures such as caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat and former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The push for legal gambling in Thailand has gained momentum, with new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra advocating for the benefits that casinos can bring to the local economy.
A study conducted by a special House committee on the proposed entertainment complex revealed that a significant portion of the Thai population is interested in casino gambling. Statistics indicate that at least 10% of the population, comprising 90% locals and 10% foreigners, engage in casino gambling. Based on population demographics and gambling behavior data, an estimated 37 million Thai residents are potential visitors to the casino.
Drawing insights from gambling trends in Macau, it is projected that once casinos open in Thailand, a portion of Thai gamblers who previously traveled to neighboring countries for gambling purposes will opt to play at local casinos instead. The potential market for the casino industry in Thailand appears promising, with an estimated 3.7 million Thai residents engaging in casino gambling activities.
The prospect of a casino entertainment complex in Thailand has generated interest and excitement among local residents and industry stakeholders. With strong support from government officials and the backing of influential figures, the establishment of a casino in Thailand could potentially transform the country’s entertainment and tourism landscape. As Thailand sets its sights on becoming a hub for gambling and entertainment, the future of the casino industry in the country looks promising.