Thailand’s Casino Reform: Wealth Requirement Dropped for Locals, Gaming Legalization Underway

Thailand is preparing to legalize casinos as part of sweeping changes aimed at boosting GDP and attracting more tourists. As part of the reform, authorities have dropped the previous requirement for Thai citizens to prove financial well-being — namely, holding at least 50 million baht (~$1.5 million) in a bank account for six months — in order to access casinos, Bloomberg reports.

Previously, almost all gambling activities were banned in Thailand. According to the Ministry of Finance, only about 10,000 bank accounts nationwide met the financial criteria, despite the population being around 70 million. Deputy Minister Julapun Amornvivat emphasized that such restrictions have not prevented Thais from gambling — they have simply done so illegally or abroad.

However, some barriers remain. Thai citizens will need to pay 5,000 baht ($148) to enter casinos — a fee comparable to Singapore’s daily casino levy of $112.

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira stated that the State Council has finalized a draft law on integrated entertainment complexes. The bill is expected to be reviewed by the Cabinet within the next two weeks before moving to Parliament. The latest revisions include licensing criteria and a proposed fee of 5 billion baht (~$148 million) per resort. Casinos are envisioned to occupy only a portion of such complexes.

International gaming operators are watching closely — and nervously. The Philippines, for example, warned that Thailand’s plans pose a major competitive threat. In 2025, the Philippine gaming market is expected to generate $7.8 to $8.3 billion in gross revenue, up from a record $7.2 billion in 2024. But Thailand’s tourist volume is significantly higher, fueling concerns among regional competitors.

Meanwhile, Osaka, Japan’s popular tourist city, is also preparing to launch its first casino, potentially intensifying regional competition.

According to Nestopa, most forms of gambling have been banned in Thailand since 1935, with the only exceptions being state-run lotteries and horse racing. However, underground gambling remains widespread, feeding the shadow economy.

In 2025, the Thai government approved legislation to legalize casinos within large integrated resorts, combining hotels, theaters, restaurants, parks, and sports facilities — following models from Macau and Singapore.

The new bill outlines plans for 5–10 integrated resorts in top tourist areas such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Chonburi (Pattaya). Public hearings have already been held, with 82% of participants supporting the initiative. Officials argue that legalization can regulate the grey market, reduce corruption, and increase tax revenues.

Annual revenue from this sector is projected to reach $9.1 billion, with foreign tourist arrivals expected to rise by around 10%. The initiative is also expected to generate between 9,000 and 15,000 new jobs in tourism, construction, and hospitality.

Experts suggest Thailand could eventually rival Macau and Singapore as a gambling destination thanks to its global tourism appeal. However, success will depend on effective regulation, political and economic stability, and public support. The predominantly conservative and Buddhist Thai society may view casinos as a challenge to traditional values.

Critics warn that legal gambling could lead to addiction, increased crime, and moral decay. Continuous oversight will be needed to prevent issues such as money laundering and corruption.

Experts already describe the gambling reform as a historic turning point for Thailand. While it promises economic growth and tourism benefits, the move also carries significant legal, social, and cultural risks.