Thailand confirms postponement of casino bill debate
The government maintains its support for the bill.
Thailand.- It’s been confirmed that the reading of proposed legislation to allow casinos in Thailand has been put back by at least a month. A reading was set for early July.
The Pheu Thai Party said the postponement is intended to allow a review of potential social risks and regulatory safeguards. The move follows the recent exit of the Bhumjaithai Party from the governing coalition and public scrutiny of the bill. Pheu Thai MP and spokesperson Danuporn Punnakanta denied that the delay was due to political instability. He emphasised the party’s continued commitment to the initiative to boost tourism and attract foreign investment.
Key concerns under review include preventing gambling addiction among Thai citizens and strengthening anti-money laundering protocols. Pheu Thai is collaborating with the country’s Anti-Money Laundering Office to design a regulatory framework modelled on established casino markets such as Macau and Singapore.
“While some Bhumjaithai MPs have left the coalition, I’ve spoken with many who remain supportive of the bill,” Danuporn stated.
