Recently appointed Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said Thursday that her government would focus on generating new income by legalizing and taxing the “informal economy” and the “underground economy” according to a report by Associated Press – an apparent reference to legalized casinos.
The issue was one of many policy directions raised as Paetongtarn read her official policy statement, which primarily focused on measures aimed at stimulating Thailand’s slumping economy.
While she didn’t elaborate on casinos, the reference to the underground economy is almost certainly a reference to the nation’s many underground casinos, with her father Thaksin having previously stated the new government would continue with recent efforts to legalize the casino industry.
A draft bill currently working its way through parliament calls for the development of multiple integrated resorts in Thailand, including up to three in Bangkok itself, each boasting a casino and other tourism facilities such as hotels, convention centers, retail, theme parks, water attractions, restaurants and more.
Casino floor space at the venues will likely be limited to around 10% of the total resort space, while locals would have to pay an entry fee of TBH5,000 (US$150).
Paetongtarn’s policy statement also committed to continuing with a controversial TBH10,000 (US$300) digital cash handout program, to support medical cannabis production, and address issues such as the quality of education and the universal healthcare system, according to Associated Press.
Paetongtarn was named Prime Minister last month after predecessor Srettha Thavisin was removed from office.
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