Opinion Casinos in Thailand Unlikely to Boost Tourism

[webfact]

File photo for reference only

 

Thailand's proposed Entertainment Complex, featuring exclusive gambling venues, faces scepticism regarding its potential to enhance tourism. The Paetongtarn government’s plan seems shaky as the focus on attracting only the ultra-wealthy raises questions about its feasibility.

 

The government admits the target audience includes just the super-rich, those with verifiable fortunes, stirring doubts about the number of such tourists worldwide. Would billionaires, often attracted to hotspots like Las Vegas, really choose Thailand merely for gambling? The plan seems to bank on assumptions about billionaire habits rather than tangible evidence.

 

Concerns also arise about possible negative effects. Fears of increased access to online gambling are prevalent, potentially affecting local youths. Comparatively, Thailand naturally draws numerous travellers every year, enticed by its vibrant culture, festivals like Songkran, and delectable cuisine.

 

Critics argue that extravagant infrastructures like casinos aren't needed to boost the tourism sector. Sporting and exhibition venues can attract substantial numbers independently if well-managed. Events such as concerts and sports attract a large crowd, negating the necessity for nearby casinos.

 

Furthermore, it's unlikely megastars like Taylor Swift skipped Thailand for lack of a casino. Major global events like Wimbledon or the UEFA Champions League don't prioritise gambling facilities. Government estimates suggest legit gambling might constitute only 10% of the complex, casting doubt on financial viability relying solely on a wealthy few.

 

In essence, while the government hopes to cultivate a unique tourism magnet, the move seems misaligned with actual market dynamics and longstanding tourism drivers in Thailand.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from THai PBS World 2025-05-06

 

 

[Chonnikarn]

Thailand already attracts millions with its culture, food, and festivals not casinos. Targeting only the ultra-rich for gambling seems risky and unnecessary. There are better ways to grow tourism, like concerts or sports events, without the downsides of promoting gambling.

[KhunLA]

If they, TH, think their version will be 'world class', like everything else they think is world class, then NO, tourist will not increase because of casinos. 

 

Not world class in TH ... compared to other locations I've been:

... scuba diving

... mountains, though very nice 

... beaches ... Hell NO

... friendliness of people ... same same

... food ... same same, marginally prefer USA

 

Not TAT promoted:

... women (non P4P) ... same same, advantage TH (income disparity), so younger will be more tolerant to older partners, but only in the 50+ age of men.  Under 45 and healthy, same same in USA.

 

[JoePai]

But Thailand is close to China where I understand they enjoy the odd flutter

[Geoffggi]

1 hour ago, webfact said:

In essence, while the government hopes to cultivate a unique tourism magnet, the move seems misaligned with actual market dynamics and longstanding tourism drivers in Thailand.

 

 

The real reason the rich Thai's want this is for money laundering & to hell with what the population want or think

[khunPer]

Ultra rich casino-fans might already have multiple more interesting offers than Thailand to choose from...

[richard_smith237]

The planned Casino's are unlikely to attract Western Tourists and have no impact whatsoever Western Tourism to Thailand...

... However, I can see that they will have a huge impact attracting the Chinese and many from neighbouring countries who will be all over these casions like GottFrid and Malcy on a Brit-bashing thread...