Cabinet Set to Reject Casino Entry Rule for Thai Nationals

[webfact]

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post

 

Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has indicated that a contentious proposal regulating casino entry for Thai citizens is unlikely to win cabinet approval. The policy, suggested by the Council of State (CoS), requires Thais to maintain a minimum of 50 million baht (approximately US$ 1.5 million) in fixed deposits for at least six months to gain entry to casino entertainment complexes.

 

Anutin, who also holds the position of Deputy Prime Minister and leads the Bhumjaithai Party, expressed skepticism over the proposal's feasibility. He reassured that as a coalition partner, Bhumjaithai remains committed to supporting government policies, provided they don't negatively impact society.

 

This proposal, outlined by Pakorn Nilprapunt, the CoS Secretary-General, aims to limit gambling access to individuals with considerable financial resources. Pakorn noted that the draft is under its second review, with the public invited to provide feedback until March 1 through the CoS website. This public response will shape subsequent deliberations.

The CoS plans to present the refined draft to the cabinet 50 days post the feedback deadline. Pakorn framed the Entertainment Complex Bill primarily as a tool to boost foreign tourism, incorporating stringent measures to deter most Thais from patronizing local casinos, addressing prevalent gambling concerns.

 

Meanwhile, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat clarified that the bill's broader agenda includes curbing illegal gambling, attracting foreign investment, and stimulating economic growth. He voiced concerns that the financial stipulations would exclude a majority of Thais from legal casinos, risking a continued reliance on unlawful gambling dens or establishments in neighbouring countries.

 

The entry requirements, poised to restrict accessibility for locals and promote economic boosts through controlled tourism, are scheduled for reassessment at an upcoming cabinet meeting. The decision will play a pivotal role in the future landscape of Thailand’s entertainment and gambling sectors, balancing economic interests with social considerations, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-02-21

 

 

[flyingtlger]

18 minutes ago, webfact said:

The decision will play a pivotal role in the future landscape of Thailand’s entertainment and gambling sectors, balancing economic interests with social considerations

 

More like how the politicians can line their pockets.....

[Gottfrid]

4 hours ago, webfact said:

requires Thais to maintain a minimum of 50 million baht (approximately THB 50 million) in fixed deposits for at least six months

I think it´s totally awesome that 50 million baht is equivalent to THB 50 million. I would never had been able to figure that out.

 

regarding the rule, it´s a totally silly one, that shouldn´t get any support in cabinet. Talking about horrendous amounts of 50 million baht for Thai people. It should be enough that they have 1 million and common sense, instead of protecting the people with big brother antics.

 

The sum of it all, is that silly people have to learn the hard way.

[hotchilli]

8 hours ago, webfact said:

Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has indicated that a contentious proposal regulating casino entry for Thai citizens is unlikely to win cabinet approval. The policy, suggested by the Council of State (CoS), requires Thais to maintain a minimum of 50 million baht (approximately US$ 1.5 million) in fixed deposits for at least six months to gain entry to casino entertainment complexes.

Ludicrous...

[bkk6060]

So when they want to get in they will have to show security their account balances?

Another ridiculous, thoughtless, idiotic concept.