New Thai PM Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra supports the legalization of casinos. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

Thailand is seeking to join the global gambling industry by adding casinos. Lawmakers in the Southeast Asian country have already submitted a draft bill for the development of casinos – legislation for which they are awaiting public feedback – but a change in Prime Minister threatened to upend these efforts.

the new leader has announced her intention to continue the pursuit of casino legalization

In music to the ears of gambling proponents, the new leader has announced her intention to continue the pursuit of casino legalization, with the intention to provide licenses by 2029.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra took over as PM of Thailand on Sunday, two days after parliament elected her and shortly after being endorsed by the King. At 37, she is the country’s youngest PM and the second woman in the post.

In a recent press conference, Shinawatra highlighted the benefits of legal gambling, pointing to other countries in which the industry has provided a boost to the economy. That said, she also made clear the need for stringent regulations to ensure that any negative aspects such as addiction are controlled.

Thailand’s gambling bill proposes a casino regulatory body that will report to a committee chaired by the PM. This will “regulate, supervise, control, promote, and support integrated entertainment venues” from its Bangkok office. Thai casinos would receive a 20-year-license, with gross gaming revenue tax of 17%.