A recent survey conducted by Thailand’s National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) has revealed that a significant majority of Thai citizens are against the government’s plans to introduce casino entertainment complexes and legalize online gambling. The survey, which was conducted through telephone interviews with 1,310 individuals aged 18 and above, found that public sentiment largely leans towards rejecting these proposals.

According to the survey results, cited by Bangkok Post, 59.19% of respondents expressed their opposition to the development of integrated entertainment complexes that include casinos. In contrast, 28.93% supported both the complex and the casino component, while 8.63% were in favor of the complex but not the casino. A small percentage, 1.68%, provided no comment, and 1.60% supported the inclusion of casinos alone without the entertainment complex.

When questioned about the potential legalization of online gambling, 58.32% of those surveyed strongly opposed the move. Meanwhile, 19.92% were in strong favor, 11.45% expressed moderate support, and 10.31% were somewhat opposed to the initiative.

The survey also explored public views on whether referendums should be held for the proposed casino-entertainment complex and online gambling legislation. The findings indicated that 51.07% of participants did not support holding referendums for either initiative, The Nation underlined. Conversely, 37.86% favored referendums for both issues, while 5.11% supported a referendum solely for the casino complex and 3.89% for online gambling legalization. Additionally, 1.99% had no opinion on the matter, and 0.08% opted not to respond.

Government Efforts and Legislative Progress

Earlier this month, Thailand’s cabinet approved the draft “Entertainment Complex Business Act,” which aims to pave the way for establishing legal land-based casinos. According to Julapun Amornvivat, Deputy Minister of Finance, the proposed legislation is currently under review by the Council of State and the House of Representatives before it moves to Parliament for further discussion. If approved, the law is expected to come into effect in early 2026, with the first casino anticipated to launch by 2029.

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has also voiced his support for the legalization of online gambling, suggesting that such a move could generate annual government revenues of up to 100 billion baht (approximately $2.89 billion). Despite not holding an official position, Thaksin remains an influential figure in Thai politics and is widely believed to have a strong influence on the administration led by his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Regional Competition and Economic Implications

Proponents of the casino and online gambling legalization initiatives argue that Thailand could benefit economically by tapping into an industry already thriving in neighboring countries such as Cambodia, Singapore, the Philippines, Laos, and Myanmar. Supporters claim that regulated gambling could attract tourists and investors, providing a substantial boost to the economy.

However, the strong public opposition highlighted by the NIDA survey suggests that the government may face significant challenges in gaining widespread acceptance for these initiatives. While discussions continue at various levels of government, public sentiment remains a key factor in determining the future of gambling regulations in Thailand.