Thailand’s ruling party has postponed the House debate on its casino legislation by one month to allow time for a detailed review of provisions related to money laundering and responsible gambling, according to government officials.
The Entertainment Complex Bill, which had originally been scheduled for House discussion on July 3, is undergoing revisions as part of the legislative process.
Pheu Thai Party spokesman and MP Danuporn Punnakanta said the government still intends to move forward with the proposal after completing a comprehensive review of its contents, particularly those concerning access for Thai nationals and safeguards against financial crimes.
Danuporn said the government is working with the Anti-Money Laundering Office and other relevant agencies to develop regulatory controls. These are expected to include measures addressing responsible gambling and financial oversight, drawing from frameworks used in jurisdictions such as Singapore and Macau.
When asked whether the delay was connected to the recent departure of the Bhumjaithai Party from involvement in the legislative process, Danuporn stated that several Bhumjaithai members had privately expressed support for the bill. This was despite the Senate—where Bhumjaithai holds a dominant presence—calling for the legislation to be permanently withdrawn.
With the Entertainment Complex Bill temporarily removed from the House agenda, the legislature is scheduled to deliberate on four political amnesty bills starting July 9. These bills are intended to promote national reconciliation.
Thailand has unveiled a detailed blueprint for its proposed Entertainment Complex Bill, setting a minimum investment threshold of ฿100 billion ($3 billion) for private-sector operators and laying out strict guidelines for the development of integrated resorts that include tightly regulated casinos.
A new date for reintroducing the bill to the House has not been confirmed.