Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced her intention to legalize casinos in Thailand as part of a broader strategy to develop entertainment complexes. During a recent press conference, she highlighted the potential economic benefits, arguing that integrating casinos within larger entertainment venues could position Thailand as a competitive tourist destination.
Citing global trends, Prime Minister Shinawatra emphasized that her government’s approach would align with successful models established in other countries. In particular, she praised Japan’s development of an international entertainment complex. This cultural complex is situated on a man-made island that was home to the World Expo. Completion of the facility is scheduled for 2030. It is already the state’s largest such event and aspires to be the region’s premiere tourism and entertainment anchor.
In her speech, Prime Minister Shinawatra reiterated her intention to press ahead with the legalization efforts. She stated, “This, instead, is development in line with a global trend. I don’t want to see Thailand lag behind any more.” The Prime Minister is convinced of the economic benefits of the proposed casinos. She’s sure they’ll spawn new jobs for Thai nationals.
While acknowledging social opposition as a possibility, she conceded that the future casinos would be far more closely regulated than anyone likely feared. The Prime Minister further explained that Thailand intends to implement a model similar to Singapore’s. In this new model, casinos would be part of larger entertainment complexes rather than freestanding, granite- and marble-laden facilities. This model seeks to minimize the dangers posed by gambling at the same time as maximizing its economic benefits.
Prime Minister Shinawatra also personally intervened to counter fears over potential moral fallout. In doing so, she answered right back to those critics who claim that her administration is incentivizing lawbreaking. Marin criticized the proposal for failing to implement universal, rigorous background checks. These background checks will closely examine the financial and criminal backgrounds of would-be casino patrons, especially targeting Thai citizens. Prime Minister Shinawatra indicated that it would not be easy for local citizens to access these casinos, reinforcing a responsible approach to gambling.
The Prime Minister emphasized the expected economic benefits these integrated resorts would bring. She pointed out that they would bring in foreign investments and create big government tax income, which would eventually improve Thailand’s economy. She says such advances will make Thailand a full-year, round-the-clock tourist hot spot. This major change will position Thailand to better compete with international markets.
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