A nationwide survey of 1,310 local Thais has found a majority do not approve of efforts to legalize casino gaming.
The survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) found that around 59% of respondents disagreed with the entertainment complex bill currently passing through the Thai parliament, while only 29% approved. The remainder said they were okay with having “one or two” legal casinos nationwide as opposed to the five proposed in the draft bill.
The survey also found that 69% of people disagreed with a plan to legalize online gaming, with the remaining 31% in support. The 1,310 respondents were all aged 18 or above with the results having a 3% margin of error, MIDA said.
Despite public opposition, the government has maintained that it will not put its casino proposal to a referendum, arguing that it will boost tourism and the nation’s economy.
As reported by Inside Asian Gaming, the draft bill was earlier this month approved by the Cabinet and has now been passed onto parliament for further review and approval.
The bill states that licensees will be granted an initial 30-year license term, reviewable every five years, and names 10 business types listed that can form part of Thailand’s “integrated entertainment venues” – Department store; Hotel; Restaurant, nightclub, discotheque, pub or bar; Stadium; Yacht and Cruising Club; Gaming; Swimming pool and water park; Amusement park; Area for promoting Thai culture and OTOP products; Other businesses as specified by the Policy Committee.
