Thailand approves bill to legalize casinos to boost tourism

Thailand’s cabinet has approved a draft law to legalize casinos and gambling, a move aimed at boosting tourism, job creation and investment, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced.

The proposed law, which will be sent to parliament for review, would allow gambling to take place in large-scale entertainment complexes.

Currently, most forms of gambling are banned in Thailand, although underground betting and lotteries remain widespread, along with limited legal gambling such as horse racing and the state lottery.

Neighboring countries such as Cambodia, Singapore and the Philippines have benefited significantly from legal casino operations, and the Thai government argues that the absence of regulated casinos has cost the country valuable revenue and tourism opportunities.

“Legalization will protect the public and also generate more state revenue,” Paetongtarn told reporters, according to Reuters.

She stressed that regulated gambling could help Thailand capitalize on its tourism potential, a vital sector for the country’s economy, which is the second-largest in Southeast Asia.

The push for legalization comes after years of debate and resistance from conservative groups in Thailand, a majority Buddhist country.

If implemented, the initiative would help strengthen Thailand’s position as a top tourist destination.

Thailand approves bill to legalize casinos to boost tourism

source: indianexpress.com

 

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