A 15-day public hearing period on Thailand’s draft Entertainment Complex Bill has received an overwhelmingly positive response, with more than 80% of respondents approving of the plan and many even suggesting an easing of rules around locals entry and gaming floor space.
Documents summarizing the findings were published by the Ministry of Finance on Monday, revealing a total of 71,289 people responded with 80.75% agreeing with the general entertainment complex plan.
According to the Ministry, recommendations stemming from the public’s feedback include altering a requirement for locals to hold at least THB 50 million (US$1.5 million) in a fixed deposit account for not less than 6 months in order to gain casino access because limiting the customer base would directly affect investment.
“There should be a proper reason why it must be THB 50 million because … investment in this business will not be able to occur,” the Ministry’s summary of responses reads.
It also notes several alternative suggestions from respondents, including a reduction in the deposit amount to THB 10 million and allowing other assets such as land and stocks to be included, or reducing the deposit amount to THB 5 million but increasing the income condition.
“The minimum deposit requirement may be an excessive restriction on personal rights,” the summary states. “Other options should be considered, such as setting maximum gambling limits and providing information and knowledge about responsible gambling.”
Also in question is the 10% cap on the amount of total entertainment complex floor space that can be utilized for gaming.
Although IAG’s own discussions with operators suggests most deem the 10% cap to be more than sufficient, the survey found some respondents believe this may be too little.
Much of the summary of public opinion revolves around ensuring Thailand’s casino legislation clearly defines issues like licensing, regulation and stipulations to avoid any abuse of power by authorities.
It also includes a proposal that operators set aside at least 1% of their net profit for CSR activities and that 2% of casino revenues are allocated to fund gambling addiction rehabilitation programs and facilities.
The Ministry said the comments “will be taken into consideration in the draft of the Entertainment Complex Bill” before it is returned to the Cabinet for final review.
