Struggles between pro-casino campaigners and their opposition have deprived punters, in various Asian countries, of their pastime for years. The Asian governments have been particularly obstinate, owing to the difficulty of combating illegal gambling and the critical society's persuasion.

However, the current wave of gambling legalization in many countries, combined with various impactful idiosyncrasies, is shifting opinions. This includes the Thai government. Brick and mortar casinos may soon flourish in Thailand. Casino tourists, both domestic and international, will be able to play their favorite casino games while relaxing on Thailand's beautiful beaches and weather. The following is a discussion of the factors that may make the dream a reality in the near future.

The COVID-19 Pandemic's Effects


As heartbreaking as it is, the COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be a black swan for the global gambling industry. The pandemic's dark period, from lockdowns to travel restrictions and curfews, crippled numerous industries and, eventually, whole economies. Tourism and nearly all of its downstream industries were severely harmed. Thailand's tourism industry, an integral part of the nation’s economy, was not spared the mayhem.

Reviving tourism in Thailand from its current situation will be an uphill battle. The injury to the sector sustained during the COVID-19 pandemic was deep and had many effects across the economy. As such, Thailand as a whole, including political and interest groups, may have to follow the path blazed by other countries: Thailand may soon legalize gambling.

Boosting tourism by attracting casino tourists is a plan that has been successful elsewhere. Given Thailand’s reliance on tourism, casino tourism may be a viable option. If gambling is legalized, casino tourists from Ghana, Australia, and other countries will likely flock to Thailand to enjoy gambling and other attractions.

Several gambling industry experts believe that the post-pandemic legalization of casinos is also necessary. "The government of Thailand has long fought illegal gambling," says Alisa, a Gaming Industry Expert at Thai Casino Center. Alisa continued, “the COVID-19 pandemic has forced an alternative way of thinking across the world." Tourism has been negatively impacted, and it will take a long time to fully recover. The developments in Asia, particularly Japan's consideration of integrated casinos, are also influencing Thai authorities' positions. “Personally, and from a professional point of view, I believe the Thai government will have to make changes in order to encourage gambling tourism to Thailand, rather than away from it,” Alisa noted.

Thailand's Gambling Industry Size


Thailand, according to the Center for Gambling Studies, is a gambling crazy country. A large proportion of the population gambles on a regular basis, despite the fact that it is illegal. The estimate is that 70% of the population actively gambles. In 2019, approximately 57% were actively engaged in the activity. The large number of gamblers using third-party platforms. This has prompted the government to go on a wild hunt to eliminate the issue. However, it begs the question as to why the government cannot reduce external gambling by legalizing it in the country.

People are opposed to legalizing gambling for a variety of reasons. Some believe it can cause marital problems, crime, and other social issues. Others believe it is unnecessary in a country dominated by Buddhism. However, given the large number of people who are currently involved in active gambling, these arguments are tenuous. Recent polls show that people's perspectives are shifting, which may eventually shift the government's perspective and prompt favorable actions.

Recent Events Indicate Imminent Legalization


All past attempts to legalize gambling in Thailand have been futile. Except for horse racing and the state lottery, betting and gambling are still illegal in all other contexts. However, recent news suggests a new ray of hope. The Thai government chose a team of 60 experts to conduct a feasibility study for the construction of several casinos in December 2021.

The government was interested in the study because it sought a viable solution to the tourism industry's losses during the pandemic. The Thai government's consideration of casinos as part of the solution and allocation of resources to the study is proof enough of the country's impending casino presence.

In another development, casino legalization is gaining momentum like never before. Both the incumbent government and the opposition are increasingly in favor of legalization. Because of the growing number of supporters, legislators in favor of casino legalization may soon win debates on the issue.

Furthermore, the current government is extremely stable. Given the Prime Minister's support for it as one of the viable post-pandemic economic stimulus methods, the stability may come in handy in supporting the legalization. Already, prominent figures such as King Maha Vajiralongkorn support the legalization of casinos for the sake of economic development. Unlike in the past, Thailand is rapidly moving toward legalizing gambling, and casino tourism will indeed become a reality.