Thailand announces potential casino host sites
Thailand has selected four locations to host “entertainment complexes,” which will feature the nation’s first casinos.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized that the country will not rush the passage of casino legislation, allowing the public more time to provide feedback.
However, lawmakers have continued shaping the Entertainment Complex Act. On 13 March, officials revealed four prospective sites for complexes with gaming. Here’s an overview.
Bangkok
As expected, the capital city has been chosen to host at least one, possibly two, entertainment complexes. Travel site Lonely Planet describes Bangkok as the “Asian megacity incarnate,” blending skyscrapers with gilded temples. Home to 22% of Thailand’s population, the city attracts nearly 23 million visitors annually. Statista ranks it among the world’s most-visited cities, making it a prime location for major entertainment venues.
Chiang Mai
Dubbed the “Rose of the North,” Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city, famous for its ancient temples and vibrant street markets. Its historic Old City is set against lush jungles with elephant sanctuaries. The city welcomes over 10 million domestic and international tourists each year.
Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, lies in the southern Andaman Sea and is renowned for its stunning beaches, drawing around nine million visitors annually. The island also hosts a bustling nightlife. Recently, Phuket has seen a surge in tourism following its feature in Season 3 of HBO’s “The White Lotus.”
Chonburi
Located 80 kilometres from Bangkok on the Gulf of Thailand, Chonburi is known for tropical gardens, wildlife parks, and landmarks like Buddha Mountain in Pattaya. More than 20 million people visited Chonburi in 2024.
The case for and against casinos
In January, Thailand’s cabinet approved the first draft of the Entertainment Complex bill. If passed, it will allow Singapore-style casino resorts in five locations nationwide.
Channel News Asia reports Nikom Boonwiset, vice chairman of the legislative committee, predicts the new sector could attract at least 50 million visitors each year.
A 2023 government study estimated a tourism revenue boost of THB406.6 billion (£9B/€10.87B/$12B) in its first year and tens of thousands of new jobs.
Yet, the proposal has critics. A January poll by the Bangkok Post revealed that 59.19% of respondents oppose casino complexes, while only 29% support them. Over 58% strongly oppose legal online gambling, and under 20% strongly support it.
The survey, conducted 20-21 January by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), has a 3% margin of error.
