Thailand’s Finance Ministry plans to revise the Entertainment Complex Bill, proposing strict financial entry requirements for locals.
The Ministry of Finance confirmed plans to revise the Entertainment Complex Bill. The proposed changes, based on recommendations from the Council of State, require Thais to have at least PHP 77 million (USD 1.4 million / 50 million baht) in the bank before they can enter a casino.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated that the government will present this updated draft to parliament. While the government may not fully agree with the restriction, it will submit the legal advisory body’s version as required. Parliament can then make any necessary changes.
Julapun opposed the high financial requirement. He pointed out that many Thais already travel abroad to gamble and argued that the restriction does not reflect reality.
He stated that only around 10,000 Thais have PHP 77 million (USD 1.4 million / 50 million baht) in a bank account. Instead of a wealth requirement, he proposed allowing Thai citizens entry if they have paid income tax for three consecutive years and are willing to pay a PHP 7,700 (USD 140 / 5,000 baht) entry fee.
Critics warn that legalizing casinos could lead to underground businesses and money laundering in Thailand. However, Julapun believes strong regulations will prevent this. He emphasized that national oversight and strict compliance standards will keep operations legal.
He also stressed that foreign investors backing these projects will not risk illegal activity. With investment amounts exceeding PHP 154 billion (USD 2.8 billion / 100 billion baht), investors with global holdings in the US, Singapore, and Japan must follow international laws. Violating regulations could cost them licenses in multiple countries.
To ensure transparency, regulators will review businesses operating in entertainment complexes every five years to confirm compliance.
Julapun reaffirmed that the Pheu Thai Party, which leads the government, considers casino development a key initiative. The goal is to create new entertainment destinations alongside Thailand’s existing nature-based tourism attractions.
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