Thailand’s Pheu Thai Party has confirmed a major policy change as it moves toward the upcoming general election scheduled for 8 February 2026. The party will no longer pursue casino-led entertainment complexes and will instead support development centered on wellness, health, and medical tourism.

Prime ministerial candidate Yodchanan Wongsawat outlined the change during an interview with Nikkei Asia, explaining that land previously considered for casinos would become health and medical hubs designed to attract visitors from abroad. He said the party supports flexible planning and can revise initiatives when outcomes do not match expectations.

The party’s shift follows a period in which casino development stood among its central proposals. Under former leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra, plans included as many as five large-scale entertainment complexes combining regulated gambling with hotels, retail spaces, and leisure facilities. The government had approved a draft Entertainment Complex Bill in January 2025, marking a significant attempt to legalize casinos with safeguards such as entry fees and financial checks for Thai residents.

Policy Reversal After Political and Social Pressure

Momentum behind casino legalization declined after leadership changes and resistance in parliament. The Senate rejected the bill amid concerns about social harm, addiction risks, and potential money laundering. Religious groups and civil society organizations also warned that gambling could worsen household debt and inequality. Public opinion surveys showed widespread hesitation, especially among older voters and residents outside major cities.

The policy shift accelerated after Paetongtarn Shinawatra resigned in October 2025 following a leadership reshuffle that redirected priorities. Economic uncertainty added pressure, including reduced Chinese tourist arrivals and competition from nearby casino markets with established integrated resorts. Ongoing military clashes with Cambodia further affected confidence in financial stability.

Against this backdrop, the party concluded that medical tourism offered a more acceptable and sustainable direction. Areas once planned for casino resorts may now host healthcare-focused developments that build on Thailand’s reputation for affordable, high-quality medical services. Officials believe the new approach can generate revenue without the social challenges linked to gambling.

Healthcare Expansion Plans

Healthcare development stands at the center of the updated agenda. The party recently discussed its “50 Districts, 50 Hospitals” proposal during a visit to Benchakitti Park Hospital in Bangkok. The plan calls for establishing 120-bed secondary hospitals in every district of the capital to reduce pressure on major facilities and improve access to local care.

This initiative would work alongside the “30-Baht Universal Healthcare Anywhere with AI” scheme, which seeks to modernize service delivery and reduce inequality in public health access, particularly in large cities.

Outlook for the Casino Debate

Although Pheu Thai has dropped its casino policy for now, analysts cited by Bangkok Post suggest the issue may reappear in the future. Studies, investor interest, and regulatory groundwork created during earlier discussions remain in place. Experts note that economic pressure after the election could revive debate over gambling legislation.

For the moment, the party’s leadership has clearly signaled that Thailand’s short-term casino ambitions have ended. By prioritizing medical tourism and wellness-focused development, Pheu Thai aims to align economic growth with social acceptance while presenting a recalibrated vision ahead of the national vote.