Thai government stress poker legalisation only applies to official tournaments
The government has repeated its clarification that the legalisation does not apply to casual or unsanctioned poker games.
Thailand.- The government has repeated its clarification that its move to lift a ban on poker does not amount to a legalisation of gambling and only applies to sanctioned tournaments.
Effective from July 30, the directive signed by repeals a 1958 ban to allow poker to be played legally only during specific, pre-approved tournaments overseen by a forthcoming Poker Sports Association. Tourism and sports minister Sorawong Thienthong stressed that this is “not full deregulation” and that casual or unsanctioned poker games remain illegal. “If it involves betting or lacks official approval, it’s illegal,” he stated.
The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) had proposed poker’s recognition as a competitive sport to attract international events. Formalities, including demonstration events and finalised documentation, are expected to take about a month.
The ministry stressed that a dedicated national association must be established to regulate and supervise poker events, which must adhere to legal and ethical guidelines. “There’s no urgency,” added Sorawong. “We’re following proper procedures.”
He added: “We are not trying to legalise gambling. Globally, poker is already adopted as a sport. I expect it will eventually be recognised in events like the Asian Games,” said Sorawong.
The move is unrelated to the stalled Entertainment Complex Bill, which aims to legalise casinos in Thailand. Gambling remains a criminal offence.
