Facing growing opposition, Thailand has postponed its scheduled review of the controversial entertainment complex bill. Originally set for 9 April, the debate will now be pushed to the next legislative session, expected this summer.
Approved by the cabinet in March, the bill proposes legalising up to five casino resorts across four designated areas in Thailand.
However, a January survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) revealed widespread public concern over potential social issues, such as gambling addiction and crime—including money laundering. Many respondents also expressed doubts about the government's transparency in advancing the proposed casino industry.
During a public comment period led by the Thailand Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), the government reported that 80% of participants supported the casino proposal, viewing it as a means to boost tourism, generate tax revenue, and create employment.
However, former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn raised doubts about the credibility of the FPO survey, suggesting it may have been influenced to align with the interests of the ruling coalition.
Debate tabled following protests
Facing growing public backlash — including an open letter from the drafters of the 2007 constitution — Thailand’s parliament has withdrawn the proposed casino bill from its current legislative agenda.
In the letter dated 6 April, 30 charter drafters argued that the bill conflicts with the National Strategy Act, which aims to ensure long-term economic stability in line with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. That philosophy promotes “appropriateness, competitive advantage, low risk, and avoiding over-investment,” including reliance on foreign capital.
Among the signatories were former Justice Jaran Pakdithanakul and law professor Vicha Mahakun, who raised concerns that billion-dollar casino resorts could encroach on public land and damage local ecosystems.
The group also criticized the rapid pace at which the bill has advanced through parliament. Additionally, they pointed out that the initiative traces back to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who they allege still wields significant influence over current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra — his daughter.
According to sources cited by the Bangkok Post, Thaksin reportedly instructed members of the Pheu Thai-led coalition to back the bill or face possible expulsion.
Lawmakers could take up bill in July
Earlier this week, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai defended the proposed casino resorts, describing them as a potential economic lifeline amid global uncertainty. He cited the recent 36% tariff on Thai imports announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, which could cost Thailand an estimated $15 billion (£11.7 billion/€13.7 billion).
“This isn’t about promoting gambling,” Phumtham said. “It’s about safeguarding the economy.” However, critics — including the authors of the 2007 constitution — argued that using this rationale to support casino development is a misuse of constitutional authority.
While the debate continues in public, it won’t return to parliament until the next legislative session, which begins on 3 July.
“We are not shelving the bill,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra told reporters on Monday. “But we will keep listening to different views and continue to engage with the public so they better understand the proposal.”
