Thailand legalises poker for international tournaments
The country has lifted a decades-old ban on the game under tight conditions.
Thailand.- Acting prime minister and interior minister Phumtham Wechayachai has signed an order that lifts the long-standing ban on poker in Thailand. Effective July 30, the measure allows poker to be played legally under controlled conditions in order to allow international tournaments.
The government stresses that the move is not a blanket legalisation but is intended to align Thailand with international norms that recognise poker as a game of skill rather than pure chance and to attract international competitions “Poker as a sport deserves its place, but it must be handled carefully,” Phumtham said, emphasising the need for “strong oversight and clear legal boundaries.”
The move revokes Interior Ministry Order No. 490/2501 from 1958. Officials have clarified that poker’s legal status remains provisional. A full regulatory framework must still be drafted and approved. A government committee will be formed to review the legal amendments required. The goal is to allow poker tournaments to be conducted responsibly, with safeguards to address concerns related to gambling addiction.
Phumtham stressed that legal recognition of poker in a tournament context does not equate to a general acceptance of gambling. “What is appropriate will be permitted, and what is not must be prohibited,” he said. Plans to legalise casinos at integrated resorts in Thailand remain on hold amid opposition and government turmoil.
