Thailand postpones casino debate

The bill, passed by cabinet in March, would legalise up to five casino resorts in four locations around Thailand.

A January survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) reflected widespread concerns about social ills like gambling addiction and crime, including money laundering. Respondents also questioned government transparency in pushing the new industry.

But from a public comment period conducted by the Thailand Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), the government reported 80% of participants supported the proposal as a way to increase tourism and tax revenue and create jobs.

One-time election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn has questioned the veracity of the FPO survey, hinting it may have been manipulated to favour a policy of the ruling coalition.

Debate tabled following protests

Amid swelling public opposition – including an open letter from drafters of the 2007 constitution – parliament pulled the bill from the current agenda.

In the 6 April letter, 30 charter authors said the casino bill “opposes the National Strategy Act’s goals for long-term economic security and prosperity”, in accordance with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. That philosophy emphasises “appropriateness, competitive advantage, low risk and avoiding over-investment”, including “over-dependence on other countries”.

Signers including Justice Jaran Pakdithanakul and law professor Vicha Mahakun expressed concern that sprawling, billion-dollar casino complexes could invade state lands and disrupt the ecosystem.

They also protested the speed at which the bill has moved through the legislature. Moreover, they noted that the plan originated with former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who is said to exert undue influence on the sitting premier, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, his daughter.

Sources recently told the Bangkok Post that Thaksin ordered members of the Pheu Thai-led coalition to support the bill or risk expulsion.

Lawmakers could take up bill in July

Earlier this week, deputy prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai said casino resorts could be a lifeline at a time of global uncertainty. He pointed to the 36% tariff on imports imposed last week by US president Donald Trump, which could lead to $15 billion (£11.7 billion/€13.7 billion) in losses for Thailand.

“This isn’t about encouraging gambling,” said Phumtham. “It’s about economic survival.” But charter authors said support of casino resorts based on that argument constitutes an abuse of constitutional powers.

The debate rages on, but not in the Thai parliament, at least not until the next legislative session. The session begins on 3 July.

“We will not withdraw [the bill] but we will continue to listen to all opinions,” Paetongtarn told reporters on Monday. “We will continue to communicate so that people will have a better understanding.”