US EditionThai Cabinet approves draft law for casinos, with limits for local gamblers
- On Thursday, the Thai Cabinet approved a draft law to legalize casinos within entertainment complexes, aiming to boost tourism and build a major gaming industry, although most gambling remains outlawed in Thailand.
- Successive governments have pushed for legalizing casinos to attract foreign visitors, create jobs, and generate state revenue, as tourism is a key driver of Thailand's economy, the second-largest in Southeast Asia.
- The draft law includes restrictions for Thai nationals, such as a 5,000 baht entry fee and proof of 50 million baht in bank deposits, effectively limiting access for many, despite earlier discussions about dropping the asset requirement.
- Government officials, including Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, have stated the draft was submitted in its current form to attract at least 100 billion baht in investments per complex and create up to 20,000 jobs, with potential amendments to be addressed later, while Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has said details are not final and Parliament will have the final say.
- While a public hearing showed 80% support for the bill, a recent poll indicates skepticism regarding the balance between risks and benefits, with concerns about increased vice, immorality, and harm to national security, and the People's Party has cautioned that legalizing gambling might lead China to discourage tourism to Thailand.
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Channel News AsiaReposted by 
The Straits Times
The Straits TimesThai Cabinet approves draft law for casinos, with limits for local gamblers
A report late last year estimated that about half of people aged 20 and more in Thailand could be casino players, providing a base for the country to potentially become the world's third-largest gambling destination.
·Singapore
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The Star Kuala LumpurReposted by 
tuoitrenews.vn
tuoitrenews.vnThai cabinet approves draft law for casinos, with limits for local gamblers
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand's cabinet on Thursday approved a draft law for casinos and entertainment complexes, as the government looks to attract more tourists and build a major gaming industry. Read full story
·Malaysia
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