Gambling law dispute escalates as Thailand’s ex-PM join critics

February 10, 2025

Gambling law dispute escalates as Thailand’s ex-PM join critics

Former Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has strongly criticised the government’s plan to legalise land-based casinos and online gambling, warning that such measures could worsen social problems. Speaking at a seminar on gambling initiatives, Abhisit argued that legalising casinos and online betting would increase household debt and crime rates.

“I disagree with the plan … this is dangerous. Online gambling, in particular, will have a negative impact on society,” he stated. His remarks were reported by the Bangkok Post on Monday.

Abhisit, who led Thailand as a Democrat Party prime minister from 2008 to 2011, questioned the economic benefits of legal gambling. While acknowledging the government’s arguments, he urged caution, warning that jobs in the casino sector might be taken by migrant workers rather than benefiting Thai citizens. He also expressed concerns over potential money laundering through gambling channels and called for strict legal oversight.

50 Days to assess the bill

The Pheu Thai Party, currently in power, proposed the policy during its 2023 election campaign, arguing it would generate tax revenue, create jobs, and attract tourists. Thailand’s cabinet approved the Entertainment Complex Bill for casino legalisation in principle on 13 January.

The country’s legal review body has been given 50 days to assess the bill before it is presented to the House of Representatives for deliberation. The proposed legislation marks a significant shift in Thailand’s approach to gambling, which has long been restricted. If passed, it would open the door to a regulated casino industry, a move that continues to spark debate over its economic and social implications.

However, concerns over the negative effects of gambling remain prominent. On 3 February 2025, Thai authorities arrested 218 individuals, described as gamblers or bookmakers, at an alleged illegal gambling venue in Nakhon Nayok province. Law enforcement officials seized gambling chips and cash worth approximately THB3 million (€82,500) during a raid in Ongkharak district.

Crackdown on illegal gambling activities

In a separate development, Thailand suspended power and Internet access to five areas in Myanmar bordering Tak and Chiang Rai provinces. Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the move aimed to disrupt call-centre scam operations believed to be operating from Myanmar.

The crackdown aligns with Thailand’s efforts to strengthen ties with China. The timing of the operation coincided with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s visit to China, amid growing concerns raised by Chinese authorities regarding the trafficking of Chinese tourists by criminal gangs in Thailand.

Thailand has been intensifying efforts to combat organised crime, including illegal gambling and cyber fraud networks that often operate across borders. The government’s latest measures highlight its commitment to addressing regional security concerns while reinforcing diplomatic relations with Beijing.

Thai Border Patrol Police also intercepted a truck carrying brand-new gambling equipment, including baccarat tables, playing cards, and casino chips, en route to a casino in Myanmar’s Myawaddy district. The seizure took place in Mae Sot, despite Thailand’s recent move to cut electricity and fuel exports to Myanmar in an effort to curb transnational crime, particularly call-centre scams.

The intensifying crackdown on gambling and cross-border criminal activity reflects Thailand’s broader efforts to disrupt transnational networks operating along its borders. As debates continue over the government’s proposed legalisation of casinos, the country faces increasing pressure to balance economic benefits with potential social and security risks.