Thailand Withdraws Casino Bill Amid Political Turmoil

On June 19, a protestor was seen wearing a headband with the words "No Casino" during a demonstration outside the Government House in Bangkok. In a significant political development, Thailand's Cabinet decided on Tuesday to retract a contentious legislation aiming to legalize casinos, following the Prime Minister's suspension the week prior amid an ethics inquiry.

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat explained that the government's intention is to postpone the bill rather than abandon it entirely, citing the ongoing political climate and a Cabinet reshuffle as reasons for this decision. Initially approved in January, this bill, also referred to as the “entertainment complexes bill,” was pending review by lawmakers and would permit casinos to operate alongside various businesses, including hotels and shopping centers, if enacted.

The decision to withdraw the proposed bill was influenced by the recent suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is facing an ethics investigation due to controversial remarks made during a leaked phone call with a senior Cambodian official. Critics have raised concerns over her comments which allegedly hurt Thailand’s national interests amid rising political chaos.

While the ruling Pheu Thai Party advocates that the bill would attract investments, enhance tourism, and address illegal gambling problems, it has encountered considerable backlash from the public and political partners. The Bhumjaithai Party, previously part of the ruling coalition, left the government over the fallout from the leaked call.

Julapun expressed that the government needs additional time to effectively communicate the advantages of the casino bill to the public, indicating that the delay is unfortunate but necessary. The Pheu Thai Party emphasized that the introduction of casinos would be a minor component of a broader strategy aimed at revitalizing tourism, which remains a crucial pillar of Thailand's economy and a consistent focus for various administrations seeking to bolster economic performance.