A government committee investigating the possible introduction of casino gaming into Thailand has proposed Bangkok as its preferred destination, while tight restrictions would be put in place governing which locals would be permitted to enter.
According to local media reports, the extraordinary committee held its latest meeting last week where location and entry rules were among the key topics of discussion.
The capital city of Bangkok, with a population of almost 11 million, was named as the committee’s preferred location due to its ready-made infrastructure, including airports,expressways and widespread accommodation.
Also seen as attractive are popular tourist areas – likely a reference to places such as Pattaya and Phuket – followed by border provinces that already have immigration checkpoints.
It is also reported that authorities would primarily market casinos at foreign tourists. Locals would be required to show their ID card, source of income, proof of steady employment and financial capability in order to gain entry, while an entry fee for locals could also be on the cards.
Inside Asian Gaming understands the extraordinary committee has already met on six occasions although it is unclear how many more meetings are scheduled.
As previously reported by IAG, the extraordinary committee comprises 60 members of which 15 are cabinet representatives and the other 45 from various political parties.
Las Vegas Sands is one company believed to be interested in developing an integrated resort in Thailand, with Chairman and CEO Rob Goldstein recently stating that LVS was in talks with “a major country”.
However, industry experts have expressed considerable doubt over whether Thailand’s dream can ever be realized given the many obstacles that would need to be overcome.
