Thailand’s casino bill clears another hurdle, Q1 2026 rollout likely
The draft of Thailand’s Casino Act is in its final stage of public consultation and is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet for approval on 4 March 2025 , a government source confirmed on 19 February 2025. If approved, the draft will proceed to Parliament for deliberation.
Since its approval in principle on 13 January, the draft bill has undergone scrutiny by the Council of State and three rounds of public hearings. The final hearing is scheduled to conclude on 1 March before submission to the Cabinet. Should it receive approval, the bill will move to Parliament for further consideration.
Bill divided in 8 sections
The bill is structured into eight sections, each addressing key regulatory aspects:
- Section 1: Defines the concept and scope of an entertainment complex.
- Section 2: Establishes the Entertainment Complex Policy Committee and outlines its roles and responsibilities.
- Section 3: Sets up a regulatory body to oversee the industry.
- Section 4: Specifies the authority and duties of relevant officials.
- Section 5: Lays out the permit application process and operational requirements.
- Section 6: Introduces safeguards to minimise the social impact of casinos, including responsible gambling measures.
- Section 7: Details penalties for non-compliance and illegal operations.
- Section 8: Provides transitional guidelines for existing businesses to align with the new regulations.
Furthermore, the bill also sets strict financial criteria for casino operators. Business entities must have a registered capital of at least 10 billion baht (€260 million) and must be at least 51 percent Thai-owned. Licences will be valid for 30 years, with renewal options every 10 years.
A casino permit fee has been set at 5 billion baht (€130 million), with an annual renewal fee of 1 billion baht (€26 million). Additionally, Thai nationals seeking entry into casinos will be required to pay a 5,000 baht (€130) entrance fee. To prevent financial risk, casino customers must be over 20 years old and maintain a minimum fixed deposit of 50 million baht (€1.3 million).
Casino law to be enacted in Q1 2026
If passed, the Entertainment Complex Business Act is expected to be enacted within the first quarter of 2026.
The proposed legislation aims to regulate and legalise Thailand’s underground gambling industry by permitting the establishment of casino-entertainment complexes. The government expects this move to generate significant tax revenue and boost economic growth.
A feasibility study is set to commence the same year, followed by a bidding process, with construction scheduled for 2027. The first casino-entertainment complex is expected to be completed within three to four years after construction begins.
Meanwhile, the debate over casino legislation continues in the country. Supporters argue that it would boost tourism, create jobs, and generate significant tax revenue, while opponents raise concerns about gambling addiction and financial mismanagement. To address these issues, the bill includes preventive measures such as strict eligibility criteria and regulatory oversight.
As the Cabinet prepares to review the draft, discussions on its potential impact on Thailand’s gaming and entertainment industry remain at the forefront. If approved, the bill could redefine the nation’s approach to gambling regulation.
