Thailand has taken a significant step towards legalizing casinos in an effort to boost its economy by attracting high-spending tourists and reducing revenue lost to illegal gambling. The government is considering allowing casinos to be housed within large entertainment complexes in order to generate more income for the country.
The move was approved by the nation’s 500-member House of Representatives, with a majority of lawmakers voting in favor of a study to explore the possibility of legalizing casinos. This decision comes as part of a larger effort to reform various industries in Thailand, including the alcohol sector.
In addition to the casino plan, the lower house also approved draft bills that aim to reform the alcohol industry. One proposal included in these bills is the elimination of a 52-year-old rule that restricts the sale of liquor between certain hours. While this regulation may be lifted, provincial authorities may still have the ability to institute their own restrictions on alcohol sales.
Overall, the government is hopeful that legalizing casinos and making changes to the alcohol industry will help boost the economy and attract more tourists to Thailand. By taking these steps, the country aims to increase revenue and create new opportunities for growth in various sectors.