Thailand to Withdraw Casino Bill
Thailand’s government has officially halted the legislation of its casino bill in Parliament amid rising political turmoil and public uproar. This development unfolded following conflict in the ruling coalition and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s suspension.
On July 7, Chief Government Whip Visuth Chainaroon confirmed the bill would not push through in the current legislative session.
Additionally, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat had noted that the new Cabinet needs to further review the casino bill.
Origins of the Casino Bill
It was in March 27, 2025 when the Cabinet approved the bill, which aimed to legalize “entertainment complexes” that included casinos. Overall, the goal was to boost tourism, attract foreign investment, and generate tax revenue. It would also attract investments of THB 119-283 billion.
According to government estimates, the complexes could produce between THB 12 billion and THB 40 billion annually. Notably, the government would allocate only 5% of each complex’s space to gambling.
Initially, the casino bill draft included a THB 50 million deposit requirement for Thai nationals. Later, though, legislators later removed this clause.
An April 2025 report notes that Thailand’s gambling industry’s value is at THB 1.1 trillion each year.
Political Upheaval Causes Collapse
However, the casino bill quickly faced backlash from civil society and religious groups. In particular, the Stop Gambling Foundation led nationwide protests, citing addiction and social decay as major risks.
In addition, a Senate panel warned that legal casinos could “open the floodgates” to large-scale crime and money laundering.
Meanwhile, Bhumjaithai, a major coalition partner, exited the government in June. Hence, this left the ruling bloc short of votes for the casino bill.
Shortly after, the Constitutional Court suspended the prime minister over a potential ethics violation involving a private phone conversation with Cambodian leader Hun Sen. As a result, the government’s legislative power weakened.
Formal Bill Withdrawal
Earlier, government whip Visuth Chainaroon told Bangkok News reporters, “The [casino] bill will definitely be withdrawn on July 9. There is no need for anyone to protest or rally over this matter.”
“Discussions have already been held within the party, and I reiterate that the withdrawal is not being made out of fear,” he added.
In Parliament, the opposition called for a complete cancellation of the casino bill rather than just a delay. Without a clear majority and under growing public scrutiny, the government complied and pulled the bill.
Moreover, the House will debate the motion to withdraw the bill before formally endorsing it.
Public Reactions and Outlook
Generally, reactions have varied to the withdrawal of the casino bill. For instance, advocates argue the move was premature.
Meanwhile, business groups say regulated gambling could create jobs and attract tourists. However, anti-gambling groups welcomed the decision. Even so, analysts say the casino bill may resurface.
Despite this, instability in government could delay progress. As such, investors now face uncertainty as Thailand re-evaluates its legal stance on gambling.
Conclusion
In summary, the casino bill’s withdrawal reflects both Thailand’s political fragility and the strength of public opinion.
For now, lawmakers must stabilize the coalition and regain public trust before reviving controversial reforms.
