Thailand’s government has confirmed its plans to open up the country’s casino industry to global giants, with invitations soon to be sent to major players in the industry to bid for licenses. The move comes as part of the country’s efforts to boost its tourism industry and generate more revenue.
In an official announcement, Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, stated that the government is looking to attract established casino operators to help develop a world-class casino industry in the country. He emphasized that the government is not looking to legalize gambling for Thai citizens, but rather to attract foreign tourists to special casino zones.
“We believe that inviting internationally renowned casino operators to bid for licenses will help us achieve our goals of boosting tourism and generating revenue for the country,” Ratchakitprakarn said.
It is reported that the licenses will be granted for integrated resort complexes that will include hotels, entertainment venues, shopping centers, and other amenities. These complexes are expected to be located in designated casino zones, likely in popular tourist destinations like Phuket, Pattaya, and Bangkok.
Several global casino giants have already expressed interest in entering the Thai market. Companies such as MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands are all rumored to be preparing bids for the licenses.
Thailand’s decision to open up its casino industry to international operators marks a significant shift in the country’s stance on gambling. Gambling is currently illegal in Thailand, with the exception of the state-run lottery and betting on horse races. However, the government has been exploring ways to capitalize on the popularity of gambling among foreign tourists, who visit Thailand in droves each year.
The move has already generated excitement among industry insiders, who see Thailand as a potentially lucrative market for casino operators.
“We see great potential in Thailand for the casino industry,” said one industry analyst. “The country’s beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture make it a top destination for travelers from around the world. If done right, Thailand’s casinos could become major players in the global gaming industry.”
As the bidding process gets underway, all eyes will be on Thailand to see how the country’s plans for a world-class casino industry unfold. With global giants vying for licenses, the future of Thailand’s gaming industry looks promising.