Despite government efforts, public apprehension about the legalization of land-based gambling remains strong in Thailand. According to the latest data from the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), 57% of respondents oppose the establishment of entertainment centers and casinos.

However, while attitudes toward gambling legalization remain cautious, opposition is gradually declining – previously it stood at 59%.

One of the key strategies for integrating casinos into Thai culture has been positioning resorts not merely as gambling hubs but as multifunctional entertainment complexes.

Earlier, one of the main subcommittees reviewing the bill proposed holding a referendum, an idea that received broad public support: 61% of respondents were in favor.

Concerns have also been raised about potential political instability that could impact the bill’s progress. Most notably, the Bhumjaithai Party – the second largest party in Thailand’s ruling coalition – has withdrawn its support for the bill.

This move came amid a scandal involving the leaked phone conversation between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s former Prime Minister Hun Sen. The conversation concerned the escalating border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia.

During the call, Shinawatra reportedly criticized the Thai army’s actions during a clash with Cambodian forces – a stance the Bhumjaithai Party claims “damaged the sovereignty, national security, and credibility of the Thai Army.”

Although Shinawatra defended her comments as part of a strategy to ease border tensions, the fallout has already begun: both sides have imposed trade restrictions, and this week Thailand banned its citizens from working in casinos in the Cambodian border town of Poipet.