CURRENT STATUS OF REGULATIONS
On 13 January 2025, the Thai Cabinet approved in principle the Draft Entertainment Complex Business Act (the “Draft Act”), to legalize casinos within entertainment complexes. This move, driven by the Ministry of Finance, aims to boost tourism, create jobs, attract investment, and combat illegal gambling.
The Draft Act mandates that entertainment complexes include at least four entertainment businesses, such as shopping malls, hotels, sports stadiums, or amusement parks, alongside casinos. These complexes must be in designated areas specified under a royal decree. Operators must be Thai-registered companies with at least THB 10 billion in paid-up capital. While the Draft Act does not restrict foreign-majority ownership, amendments may be introduced during the legislative process.
The licensing process requires a THB 5 billion issuance fee, a THB 1 billion annual fee, and a THB 5 billion renewal fee. Licenses last 30 years, renewable for up to 10 years. The Entertainment Complex Policy Committee, chaired by the Prime Minister, will oversee licensing. Additionally, casinos must not offer online gambling outside the premises.
Key operational conditions include a THB 5,000 entry fee per visit for Thai nationals, compliance with Thai-foreign employee ratios, and lease agreements capped at 50 years, renewal for up to 49 years. Casino operators are prohibited from advertising or promoting gambling except under the managing committee’s guidelines. Credit facilities may be provided to players under strict regulations.
The Cabinet also approved the plan for the issuance of subordinate legislation related to the Draft Act. The plan outlines various regulations covering business licensing, financial policies, operational standards, workforce regulations, and marketing restrictions for integrated entertainment complexes, including casinos. Key aspects include zoning laws, licensing criteria, fees, employment conditions, and operational guidelines, with a focus on regulatory oversight and compliance. The subordinate legislation further establishes restrictions on advertising, gambling credit policies, and entry conditions for casinos. All regulations are expected to be enacted within 180 days from the Draft Act’s effective date to ensure a structured and controlled implementation of the entertainment industry.
Following Cabinet approval, the Draft Act will undergo further legislative scrutiny with Senate consideration as the final step before enactment. Despite strong cultural opposition to gambling, support from the ruling party and key officials will make this policy shift a significant step in Thailand’s economic development strategy.
Targeted Locations
The government’s entertainment complex development policy targets five locations: Khlong Toei Port (Bangkok), Bang Kachao (Samut Prakan), the EEC region, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. On 17 December 2024, the Cabinet approved a draft Royal Decree designating 2,662 rai in Ban Chang District, Rayong Province, as a zoning area for licensed entertainment venues within the Eastern Aviation City (EEC).
