Roy A F

A solution to the woes of Thailand and the tourist trade in particular.

Just a thought, not a proposal, as the current government is strictly against gambling in any form.

It is well documented that the tourist trade is essential to the well-being of many Thai population, that we are sure about.

Some years ago there was a topic of conversation amongst the business community and the some of the then Government, before the military took over, where the possibility of Phuket Island, being the largest earner from the tourist trade, was allowed to become a free port and customs area, together with the licensing of casinos. Similar to two close neighbours Singapore as a free port and areas of Malaysia where casinos are permitted in some areas and previously, Penang and now Langkawi as duty-free areas. It was suggested that this could not take place with the then current King in place, but maybe after the succession and the Crown Prince on the throne.

Certainly, this would make Thailand much more attractive to visitors.

This would cause some problems for the population but offset by the increase in spending by the visitors, note I don't mention tourists.

Tourists could also benefit from the improved facilities that the increased tax revenues would fund.

Cruise ships would flood the island with rich Asians to fill out the casinos, they could also buy their duty-free goods whilst here. and also the possibility of weekend gamblers flying in to enjoy the facilities.

Control would be easy and simple, although there would be some who could try to get around the law, but if the facilities i.e. Casinos and Duty-Free malls are only open to foriengers and proof would be their passport so no local gamblers. There would be no place for local gamblers to go, other than the shady dives already well known, to the authorities.

If this proved to be a financial success then other areas could be selected such as Pattaya, but that would be a lot more demanding to control than Phuket, being its an island.

On 1/21/2021 at 5:18 AM, Chelseafan said:

Dr Yong explained. “The global population is more than 7 billion. Just 50 per cent of population would need 8 billion vaccines since each person has to take two doses. So it will be impossible to vaccinate everybody within this year.”

 

Maybe maths aint his strong point. 7 Billion vacines not 8 Billion...

Maybe allowing 12% for wastage ???

Picture of the rice harvest at Nan.

2 hours ago, ChipButty said:

I wonder how many farang think they have bought property on a 30+30+30 lease? It was all the fashion some years ago down here in Phuket