Thai government withdraws casino bill as political pressure and protests grow
Thailand has dropped plans to allow casinos as part of large-scale entertainment complexes, following political unrest and strong public opposition.
The draft law, which aimed to open the door to gambling in limited areas of new tourist resorts, was removed from the national assembly’s agenda after the Finance Ministry raised concerns.
Officials said the proposal needed more time for public understanding due to its wide-reaching social effects.
The idea had been pushed by the government of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra as a way to boost tourism and the economy.
The first complex was expected to include theme parks, stadiums and theatres, with gambling limited to a small portion of the site.
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But the plan drew criticism from civil society groups and religious leaders who feared it would worsen addiction and inequality.
Although the bill had earlier received Cabinet support, delays began in April when the prime minister postponed its first reading.
A recent Cabinet reshuffle and the suspension of Paetongtarn from her duties have deepened political uncertainty, making it harder to move forward with the legislation.
Her party, Pheu Thai, also lost support in parliament after a key ally withdrew from the coalition.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said he was disappointed with the decision. “It’s a shame. The delay is a lost opportunity for the country,” he said, but added, “it’s not the appropriate time.”
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
