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posted 3 weeks ago
Following our previous article on “Thailand Unveils Draft Entertainment Complex Bill: A Path to Casino Legalization”, Thailand’s Cabinet has approved the Draft Entertainment Complex Act (“Draft Bill”), marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to boost its tourism sector and diversify its entertainment offerings. The Draft Bill, which aims to regulate and promote investment in entertainment complexes—including casinos—is now set to be submitted to the Parliament for further deliberation. This development comes as Thailand seeks to strengthen its position as a leading global tourist destination, with tourism playing a crucial role in the country’s economy.
The approval of the Draft Bill follows a public hearing where the majority of participants expressed support for the initiative. However, the Draft Bill has also sparked debates and concerns, particularly from the Office of the Council of State, which has raised questions about its alignment with government policies and its effectiveness in addressing illegal gambling.
Key Features of the Draft Bill:
The Draft Bill introduces a comprehensive framework for the establishment and operation of entertainment complexes, which are defined as integrated venues that include a casino alongside at least four other types of businesses. Below are the key aspects of the Draft Bill:
Under Sections 3 and 41 of the Draft Bill, an entertainment complex must include a casino and at least four additional businesses, such as shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, pubs or bars, sports and entertainment facilities, yacht and cruising clubs, gaming establishments, swimming pools, amusement parks, OTOP centers (promoting local Thai products) and/or other businesses as prescribed by the Policy Committee.
Each business within the complex must comply with its respective laws and regulations. However, operational details such as hours of operation, alcohol sales, and designated smoking areas will be determined by the Policy Committee.
The Draft Bill defines a casino as a facility designated for gambling activities within a specific location. Key regulations include:
Licenses for operating entertainment complexes will be valid for 30 years, with an initial fee of 5 billion THB and an annual fee of 1 billion THB. License holders must undergo performance evaluations to ensure compliance with approved plans. Renewals will be considered in 10-year increments, subject to additional fees.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
License holders must adhere to the operational plans submitted during the application process. Any deviations require prior approval from the Policy Committee. Failure to comply may result in license revocation.
The locations for entertainment complexes will be specified in a forthcoming Royal Decree. Unofficial reports suggest potential sites in major tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Pattaya, etc.
Concerns from the Office of the Council of State:
Despite the Cabinet’s approval, the Office of the Council of State (“Office”) has raised several concerns about the Draft Bill:
Minister of Interior’s Stance on Gambling:
Adding another layer to the discussion, the Minister of Interior, who oversees gambling laws, has indicated that certain forms of gambling may be permitted without waiting for the Draft Bill to pass. This statement suggests a potential shift in the government’s approach to gambling regulation, possibly allowing limited gambling activities under existing laws while the Draft Bill undergoes further review.
Next Steps:
With the Cabinet’s approval, the Draft Bill will now be submitted to the Parliament for further deliberation. During this process, amendments may be made based on feedback from relevant authorities. Additionally, the Policy Committee will issue further announcements to clarify operational details, such as hours of operation, alcohol sales, and other regulatory aspects.
Conclusion:
The approval of the Draft Bill by the Cabinet marks a significant step toward diversifying the country’s tourism offerings and addressing the issue of illegal gambling. However, concerns raised by the Office of the Council of State highlight the need for clarity, alignment with government policies, and effective communication with the public. As the Draft Bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders must remain vigilant and prepare for potential changes. In the meantime, the Minister of Interior’s remarks suggest that the government may explore interim measures to regulate gambling activities, signaling a dynamic and evolving landscape for Thailand’s tourism and entertainment sectors.
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