Digital Thailand Big Bang 2019 | Photo via DEPA 

 

Thailand is on the brink of a major transformation in its digital gaming industry with the anticipated passage of the Game Industry Act. This new legislation aims to regulate and support the country's booming gaming sector, bringing it in line with other Asian giants like Japan, South Korea, and China. The bill is strongly supported by Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaichanok Chidchob, indicating a governmental push towards formalising the rapidly growing e-sport market.

 

The draft, crafted by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), has already passed a public hearing and won approval from both the Comptroller-General’s Department’s revolving fund committee and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), which has allocated a budget for its development. DEPA’s president, Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, is confident about the bill’s success under the current administration, pointing to a positive future for the industry.

 

However, the proposal hasn't been without controversy. Concerns have been raised by public and non-profit groups over the potential for online games to foster gambling behaviours. These organisations advocate for more precise definitions and a robust registration and oversight system to safeguard against misuse while promoting industry growth.

 

The Game Industry Act is designed to regulate aspects such as gambling-like elements found in some games, including lucky draw mechanics and point-based systems. Officials argue that current laws are insufficient for monitoring these games and that the new legislation will empower cyber police to block unregistered platforms and enforce compliance with international standards.

 

Worth an estimated 30 to 40 billion baht annually, the gaming industry stands to gain substantial support under the new law. Key components of the act include defining game types, establishing oversight committees, mandating game registration, supervision, and creating an industry promotion fund. Upon its enactment, three committees will be set up to handle registration, supervision, and promotion, ensuring efficient and non-overlapping management of the industry.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

Thailand's Game Industry Act is set to regulate and support the gaming sector.
The bill has cleared initial hurdles and has strong governmental backing.
Concerns remain about gambling elements, but stricter oversight is planned.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-10-06

 

 

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