Nattapong called for the government to seriously crackdown on illegal gambling and reform the police who allegedly receive bribes from illegal gambling dens. Nattapong Samphaokaew, the coordinator of the youth network against gambling, petitioned House speaker Chuan Leekpai voicing opposition to the legalization of casinos. The idea of legalizing casinos was floated by the past governments of Thaksin Shinawatra, Samak Sundaravej and Yingluck Shinawatra. Opposition from the public is one of the key factors for the delay in legalizing casinos despite several attempts in the past. To address the concerns of people, he suggested strict regulations such as age restrictions and annual income requirements, which could prevent youths and low-income earners from gambling at casinos. MPs have a better idea of popular opinion as they are elected by the people,” said Sangsit. “I don’t think the survey by NIDA Poll represents the opinion of the majority of people. Sangsit, however, believes that this time it is different as both government and opposition MPs are backing the move. However, 21.25 percent supported setting up casinos as a means to generate more revenue for the country and to discourage Thais from making overseas trips for gambling. Some respondents were opposed to casinos being legalized on religious grounds, as they see it conflicting with Buddhist values.

Sangsit, an economist, has done plenty of research on the gambling issue and has long advocated the opening of casinos in Thailand.Ī survey from December 6-8 by NIDA Poll suggested that the majority of 1,318 respondents were opposed to the move.Īccording to the poll, 46.51 percent of respondents did not agree with the idea of legalizing casinos, as they were worried about people getting tempted to engage in gambling, family conflicts, rise in household debt, and increase in crime. “It is the best chance in 50 years to legalize casinos,” said Sangsit Piriyarangsan, chairman of the Senate standing committee on poverty and inequality reduction. Their study is expected to be concluded within 90 days.

Thailand took a major step towards legalizing casinos after the House of Representatives voted on December 2 to undertake a feasibility study on allowing gambling dens.īoth the government and opposition MPs have expressed their support to set up entertainment complexes, as new sources of revenue are being eyed after COVID-19 weakened the country’s fiscal position.ĭeputy Transport Minister Atirat Ratanasate was picked to lead the extraordinary House committee looking into the pros and cons of legalizing casinos.Ītirat said that three to five sub-panels would look into various aspects.

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