Economy Thailand Plans Casino-Entertainment Complex to Spur Economic Growth

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

The Thai government has set its sights on a new economic strategy by launching an entertainment complex featuring a casino, projecting it to boost the country's GDP by 0.8%. The "Thailand Entertainment Complex," unveiled by Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, is designed to rejuvenate Thailand's tourism and service economy by attracting more international visitors.

 

At the project's launch on Wednesday, Julapun addressed public concerns surrounding the social implications and money-laundering risks associated with casino operations. Assuring transparency, he announced that a bill to regulate this man-made tourist destination will be scrutinised by parliament when it reconvenes in July. This follows a postponed first reading initially set for April due to opposition. Julapun emphasised that the government has engaged with multiple sectors to address various concerns, describing the project as a pivotal opportunity for economic growth.

 

Suksit Srichomkwan, the deputy secretary-general to the prime minister, highlighted the significant role of the service sector, which contributes about 18% to GDP. With tourism showing signs of recovery, there is a call to enhance tourist spending and extend their stays. Suksit pointed out that events such as Formula One, international music festivals, and mega-Songkran celebrations are critical for drawing more tourists.

 

He stressed the need for Thailand to diversify beyond natural attractions amid growing competition from other countries. The casino-entertainment complex, operable throughout the year, offers a solution to reducing reliance on seasonal tourism. It will feature a large indoor stadium for international concerts, an exhibition hall showcasing Thai culture, a five-star hotel, a luxury shopping mall, museums, and amusement parks.

 

With an estimated project value of 100 billion baht, the complex is anticipated to create between 9,000 and 15,000 jobs, benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and generating 100–200 billion baht annually in tourism revenue. Suksit noted that during construction, the project could boost GDP by 0.23%, and once operational, it could contribute 0.2–0.8% to annual GDP based on conservative estimates.

 

Annual tax revenue from the complex is expected to be in the range of 12-40 billion baht, excluding additional fees. The government plans to allocate these funds to education, mirroring the use of sin taxes for supporting sports initiatives and vulnerable communities.

 

When questioned if the casino aspect could be excluded, Suksit underlined the integrated business model as a vital growth engine, adding substantial value to Thailand's tourism sector.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-05

 

 

[ozz1]

What a load look at Cambodia and what it did there the government really are living in fantasy land they just want a cut and it won't help the local Thais 

[CallumWK]

1 hour ago, snoop1130 said:

The Thai government has set its sights on a new economic strategy by launching an entertainment complex featuring a casino,

 

No kidding, that is the first I hear about those plans.

 

In other news tomorrow, opposition grows against the government plans to open casino's

[Celsius]

Bad locations for a casino....

 

Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy and soi siped 

 

Good locations..... Arrival gates and baggage claim at Swampy

 

A slot machine inside a taxi cab

 

Executive lounge in a hotel