Thailand proposes $3 billion minimum investment for regulated casino resorts

Thailand has unveiled a detailed blueprint for its proposed Entertainment Complex Bill, setting a minimum investment threshold of 100 billion baht ($3 billion) for private-sector operators and laying out strict guidelines for the development of integrated resorts that include tightly regulated casinos.

The legislation, expected to be tabled for a vote in the House of Representatives on July 9, aims to boost tourism, generate significant tax revenue, and attract foreign investment. The proposed complexes, which must dedicate at least 90% of their floor space to non-gambling amenities such as theme parks, arenas, and water parks, would limit casino areas to just 10%.

The Thai government has designated four potential locations for development—Bangkok, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai and Phuket—with the Bangkok Port in Klong Toey being considered for redevelopment by the Ministry of Transport. Galaxy Entertainment Group and MGM Resorts International have expressed interest in the Bangkok site.

“Thailand is clearly seeking tourism diversification, and this [announcement] is a sign of continued commitment to the Entertainment Complex Bill, which it is hoped will bring much-needed jobs and investment to the Kingdom,” said Rosalind Wade, CEO of Winna Media and the Thailand Entertainment Complex Summit.

Officials estimate the project could generate between 12.04 billion and 39 billion baht ($367 million to $1.1 billion) in annual tax revenue, while increasing international tourist arrivals by as much as 20%. Average spending per visitor is projected to rise by 22,000 baht.

Despite international interest, concerns remain over the lack of clarity on licensing and local access. “Other than firming up the minimum capital commitment of each potential licensee to circa $3bn, the announcement really hasn’t given any greater clarity on some of the more critical elements of the EC,” said Ben Lee, Managing Partner of IGamiX Management Consulting. “This entails... likely impediments to locals accessing the casinos, and the number of licences that will be available.”

Under current provisions, Thai citizens must have fixed deposits of at least 50 million baht ($1.5 million) held for six months and pay a 5,000 baht ($152) entry fee to access casino areas. The complexes must adhere to stringent anti-money laundering measures and bar access to financially vulnerable individuals. The framework is modelled on regulatory regimes in Singapore, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates.

Civil society groups and opposition politicians have raised concerns over the potential for increased problem gambling and related social costs. Amendments introduced by the Council of State in March have further tightened eligibility requirements for locals.

Verapat Pariyawong, legal adviser to the House Finance Committee, said the initiative seeks to formalise existing underground gambling activity while broadening Thailand’s appeal as a global tourism destination.

“The attempt to crack down on such issues alone is insufficient to fully resolve the problem,” he said. “It is crucial for Thailand to keep up with these changes and implement appropriate regulations to ensure that online gambling does not fall into the hands of underground groups.”

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat has assured investors that the bill is on track to pass within the current government’s term, which ends in 2026. However, observers caution that internal tensions within the ruling coalition could affect its progress.

While stakeholders await the next round of legislative debate, Wade said: “While international interest remains robust, most are still waiting for the finer details of the bill to be published. It will be exciting to see what happens on 9 July and afterwards.”