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The Thai government’s initiative to develop integrated entertainment complexes, including casinos, has generated a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism within the tourism sector. Stakeholders express hope that such developments will revitalize the economy, although some question whether the benefits will outweigh the potential drawbacks.
Weerawit Krueasombat, president of the Patong Entertainment Business Association (PEBA) in Phuket, supports the idea of an integrated complex with a casino in major tourist areas. He emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that includes consideration of tax regulations to attract investors and enhance financial circulation within the country. Weerawit, cited by Bangkok Post, suggests that locations like the Thalang district, close to Phuket Airport, could serve as ideal sites for such projects, rather than congested downtown areas.
Echoing this sentiment, Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul also expresses readiness to support an entertainment complex in his town, aligning with the government’s man-made tourism policies. However, he highlights the importance of expanding the local airport to accommodate international flights, which could help attract more foreign tourists to the region. He notes that the economic downturn has significantly impacted local attractions, leading to financial difficulties for businesses reliant on tourism. Nopporn advocates for Hua Hin to be promoted as a key tourism destination, proposing the addition of a sports complex to facilitate international competitions.
Sa-nga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Business Association in Bangkok, concurs with the government’s efforts to boost tourism through entertainment complexes featuring casinos. He believes this could lead to substantial income for the country. “If the casino is properly regulated by law, Thailand could become a perfect choice for tourists due to its natural attractions and various entertainment options offering an all-inclusive tourism experience,” he stated. Sa-nga argues that secondary cities might benefit more from such developments, suggesting that revenue could be utilized to enhance other areas, such as education.
Infrastructure Development Needed
Boonanan Pattanasin, president of the Pattaya-Chonburi Business and Tourism Association, notes the prevalence of joint ventures between Thai and foreign investors in Pattaya, home to various international attractions. He stresses the need for laws ensuring fair competition and controlling funding sources, urging the government to provide regulatory support alongside encouraging investment. “The government also needs to support the operators in terms of laws and regulation, not just encourage them to invest,” he added.
Conversely, the Phuket Tourist Association (PTA), led by president Thanet Tantipiriyakit, expresses reservations about the casino component of the proposed entertainment complex. He questions whether a casino would significantly impact tourist numbers, particularly regarding repeat visitors. “We believe the charm of Phuket lies in its natural beauty, culture and many unique features that have attracted return tourists from around the world and generated economic growth,” Thanet explained. He cautions against relying on casino-driven tourism, which often flourishes in areas lacking natural attractions.
The PTA also raises concerns about the financial requirements for investors, particularly the need for a registered capital of at least 10 billion baht, which they believe favors larger companies over local businesses. Thanet underscores the necessity of infrastructure development, such as improved roads and public transport, as critical to sustaining tourism growth. He warns that the influx of large foreign investors could jeopardize local interests, as they may prioritize profits over community welfare. In fact, Inside Asian Gaming reports that MGM Resorts International is one of the big global players that are ready to invest in an integrated resort in Thailand.
The Deputy Minister of Finance, Julapun Amornvivat, recently provided an update on the progress of the Entertainment Complex bill, indicating that some aspects are under review to ensure alignment with the Fiscal Discipline Act. He confirmed that the project is on track, having already undergone a public hearing with general agreement among participants. Further discussions are planned before submitting the revised bill to the cabinet for consideration.
