Thailand PM Charnvirakul reveals future of gambling legalisation

Summary

New Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has made clear he will not back using gambling — specifically integrated resorts with casinos — as an economic stimulus. His comments cast doubt on the previously mooted integrated-resorts bill and signal a major slowdown for any near-term legalisation plans. Charnvirakul said he does not agree with gambling as an economic tool and insisted poker will be re-assessed, with the possibility of it being reclassified as a sport.

The bill had been championed by the ousted Shinawatra administration but was withdrawn after political turmoil, including a leaked phone call and her subsequent suspension and Constitutional Court ruling. Deputy ministers have suggested the legislation might be reintroduced when conditions are more favourable, but the new PM’s stance makes that uncertain.

Regionally, Japan is pushing ahead with integrated resorts — MGM Osaka is due in 2030 — a move prompting concerns in South Korea over competitiveness and potential tourist outflows.

Key Points

Anutin Charnvirakul, the new PM, opposes using gambling to stimulate Thailand’s economy and will not support the integrated-resorts bill for now.
Poker will receive a second assessment and could be reclassified as a sport under the new government.
The integrated-resorts draft was withdrawn after political fallout from a leaked call and Shinawatra’s suspension and Constitutional Court ruling.
Deputy ministers have suggested reintroducing the bill when political conditions improve, but the PM’s comments reduce short-term chances.
Japan’s progress on integrated resorts (eg. MGM Osaka) heightens regional competition concerns, notably for South Korea’s casino and tourism sectors.

Why should I read this?

Short version: Thailand looks unlikely to open its doors to big casinos any time soon. If you’re in iGaming, tourism or investment in SE Asia, this affects market-entry plans and regional competition. We skimmed through the politics, so you don’t have to — here’s the punchline.

Author style

Punchy: A decisive political pivot — this isn’t a minor policy tweak. Operators and investors should take note and reassess timelines for Thailand exposure; the regional playing field is shifting as Japan accelerates its IR plans.