BANGKOK, March 27 — Thailand's Cabinet has approved a draft law to establish entertainment complexes to boost tourism and generate economic growth.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in confirming the Cabinet's approval for the Entertainment Complex Bill today, clarified that such complexes are not synonymous with casinos.
"Entertainment complexes are not equivalent to casinos, as casinos will account for no more than 10 per cent of the total complex area.
"The remaining 90 per cent will feature large concert halls with a capacity of 50,000 people, indoor stadiums, water parks, hotels, and restaurants. These facilities are expected to generate revenues of between 119 billion baht (RM15.5 billion) and 238 billion baht (RM31.1 billion),” she told the press after chairing the Cabinet meeting at the Government House.
Paetongtarn added that the bill aims to promote innovative tourism, transitioning the country from traditional or seasonal tourism to a "man-made tourism" model.
The proposal has undergone public consultation, engaging over 80,000 participants, with 80 per cent expressing their support.
“The initiative is projected to increase the number of international tourists by five to 10 per cent annually, create new jobs, and generate significant tax revenue from casinos and associated businesses.
“These funds will be reinvested into national development," she said.
However, the Prime Minister stressed that strict regulations will be implemented to prevent gambling addiction and ensure responsible operations.
With Cabinet approval, the bill will now proceed to the legislative process in the House of Representatives and the Senate.
While no specific timeline has been given for its enactment, Paetongtarn noted that certain aspects, including the proposed 50 million baht (RM6.54 million) financial threshold for investors, will be further deliberated in Parliamentary discussions.
Addressing concerns about opposition and protests, she said the government is open to listening to all viewpoints and will continue to highlight the broader benefits of the initiative.
"This is about creating opportunities for our country," Paetongtarn said, citing projections of increased annual tax revenue ranging from eight billion baht (RM1.04 billion) to 35 billion baht (RM4.57 billion), with casino-specific taxes contributing at least 3.26 billion baht (RM426 million).
The bill, proposed by the Finance Ministry in January, aims to standardise integrated entertainment complexes while promoting tourism and investment.
— Bernama
