Thailand may debate legalisation of gambling

The Prime Minister of Thailand says he is considering opening a debate on the legalisation of gambling in the country.

Thailand.- The prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has said he may consider the option of legalising gambling in the country as a measure to tackle the problem of illegal gambling dens.

The measure is controversial, due to substantial opposition to the industry, which has historically been led by the government itself.

However, according to the prime minister, a legal gambling sector is increasingly being seen as a potential solution to the growing problem of illegal gambling.

The Bangkok Post has reported that the PM now intends to open public discussions on the pros and cons of legalising gambling despite being opposed to it himself.

View also: Thailand to introduce tourism tax.

The Covid-19 pandemic also has much to do with the change of opinion. According to the Prime Minister, he has been informed that Thailand’s most recent outbreak was largely due to illegal gambling dens.

Taweesilp Visanuyothin, spokesman for the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA), confirmed on Friday that Prayut was ready to discuss the idea of legalising gambling to confront the problem.

According to Visanuyothin, the key question for Prayut is whether gambling can be considered morally acceptable by the majority of Thais.

Thailand remains one of only three ASEAN nations with no legal casinos, alongside Indonesia and Brunei.