Operator News
Thailand – Thais take to gambling with 80 per cent supporting casinos in recent survey
By Phil - 11 July 2022
The Casino Committee, charged with researching the introduction of up to five casinos in Thailand, has released the results of a survey where more than 80 per cent of locals support the idea of introducing casinos.
The Committee questioned 3,296 people with 80.67 per cent believing casinos should be legalised, 64 per cent suggesting a casino would work alongside a department store, 40 per cent wanting an adjoining spa and massage, and 39 per cent believing they should co-exist with banks and financial institutions. Around 37 believed a standalone casino was the way forward with 57 per cent believing Bangkok would be an ideally location along with casinos close to international airports.
On the negative side, 55 per cent were concerned by crime, 53 per cent were worried about accumulating debt whilst 40 per cent had an issue with foreign business donations and involvement.
Thailand is looking at the feasibility of allowing five casinos to be built with the Thai National Assembly suggesting revenues could be taxed at 30 per cent to quash illegal gambling.
Pichet Chuamuangphan, the second vice-chairman of the committee, said that the results of earlier research into the matter have been presented to the government with the suggestion of introducing casinos in the north, northeastern, central, and southern regions of Thailand as well as the Greater Bangkok area. Online gambling would also be allowed.
The committee has studied the legislation of casinos in various countries, such as Singapore and Malaysia as part of its process. It is due to submit the survey results to the President of the National Assembly on July 27.
Thailand is one of only three ASEAN nations without legal casinos, alongside Indonesia and Brunei.
