Thailand has confirmed that Bangkok, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, and Phuket will host the country’s first integrated entertainment complexes, which will include casino facilities, according to a Bangkok Post report. The decision comes despite public opposition and concerns about gambling regulation.  

The planned 500-billion-baht (€13.7 billion) project is expected to attract up to 50 million visitors annually and create around 40,000 jobs. Developers are aiming to boost tourism and drive economic growth through these entertainment complexes. International investors have already expressed interest in participating in the project.  

Each complex is set to feature a five-star hotel, a shopping mall, an amusement park, a sports arena, a convention hall, and an exhibition centre. The casino section will occupy less than 10 percent of the total area, though critics argue that public perception remains focused on gambling.  

Postponed presentation and public concerns  

Initially scheduled for presentation in a recent cabinet meeting, the Entertainment Complex Bill was delayed as the Ministry of Finance continues to gather public feedback. This follows growing opposition from protest groups who submitted concerns to the Government House. The ministry is expected to review and revise the bill based on public opinion before resubmitting it to the cabinet.  

Regulatory concerns and criticism  

According to the Bangkok Post, The Stop Gambling Foundation has criticised the current draft of the bill, arguing that it lacks clear measures to protect minors from gambling addiction. Concerns were raised about the absence of guidelines on casino size, the number of facilities, and tax regulations. The foundation is particularly worried that the bill’s definition of “other businesses” may allow casino operators to use loopholes for activities like money laundering through junket services.  

Background on previous developments  

Last month, Thailand’s Transport Ministry identified Bangkok Port in the Klong Toey area as a possible location for an entertainment complex. The site’s size, riverfront setting, and potential for a yacht marina were cited as attractive features for tourism development.  

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently confirmed that the entertainment complex bill had passed the cabinet stage and will proceed to parliamentary review. Under the proposed framework, operators could receive 30-year licences with reviews every five years.   

Balancing growth and social concerns  

While supporters argue the complexes will diversify Thailand’s tourism sector, critics warn that existing issues with illegal gambling and unregulated online platforms must be addressed. The accessibility of gambling, particularly for younger audiences, remains a major concern.  

Public sentiment has shown mixed reactions. A survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) found that nearly 60 percent of respondents opposed the casino project, with concerns about social impact playing a major role.