Inconsistencies Surface: Could the Bhumjaithai Party Reverse Casino Legalization Plans in Thailand?
Bhumjaithai Party May Block Casino Legalization in Thailand After Parliamentary Debate
Following a two-day discussion led by the Pheu Thai party, the Thai party Bhumjaithai expressed opposition to the proposed casino legalization in Thailand, despite previously supporting it under certain conditions. A representative from Bhumjaithai revealed their stance, as reported by thainewsroom.com.
In summary of the meeting with the eleven Thai coalition parties, Bhumjaithai's spokesperson announced that while they support the formation of entertainment complexes, they are against the inclusion of casinos [English article].
Chaichanok Chidchob, General Secretary of Bhumjaithai, mentioned that the anticipated high revenues from legalizing gambling might not be evenly distributed among the Thai populace and that the project's implementation may span multiple legislative periods, with the 2027 Thai election on the horizon.
Potential Convincing Factors for Bhumjaithai
However, the Bangkok Post highlights a different stance from Bhumjaithai. The party generally supports casino legalization but has expressed concerns about establishing a monopoly or financially favoring a select few investors [English article].
Korrawee Prissananantakul, a Bhumjaithai MP, suggested that the government invest in the casino industry to generate revenue and alleviate poverty:
Why doesn’t the government invest in these casinos and run them yourself to generate revenue and assist the poor? [...] If the government undertakes this, every Thai will reap the benefits of this policy, not just select investors. – Korrawee Prissananantakul, Bhumjaithai MP, Source: Bangkok Post.
However, they also question if casinos licenses are being sold too cheaply, thereby benefiting only some foreign investors.
Low Risks, Higher Benefits for Thailand?
Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister and de facto leader of the Pheu Thai party, countered Bhumjaithai's argument by emphasizing the secured revenue for the state.
If the government builds casinos themselves, they would assume substantial financial risks, while licensing would provide a reliable income stream. Since casinos are also planned for less touristy areas, this could improve infrastructure and increase job opportunities.
Despite stringent financial conditions for casino investors, several companies are eager to open a location. Alongside licensing fees, they anticipate revenues from taxes and an overall surge in tourism.
Widespread Public Support for Casino Legalization
According to a report by industry magazine Asia Gaming Brief, the casino legalization plan in Thailand has garnered a significant amount of public backing [English article]. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat revealed that nearly 80% of attendees at a public hearing expressed their support.
The revised draft must first be submitted to the cabinet for approval by coalition parties, then to the Council of State for review, and finally to the House of Representatives for a final vote.
As a result, it remains to be seen whether the casino legalization will proceed as planned by the government, or if the investors' interest may falter due to potential delays.
Despite the widespread public support for casino legalization, as indicated by a report in Asia Gaming Brief with nearly 80% of attendees at a public hearing expressing their support, the Bhumjaithai Party has opposed the proposal. After a discussion led by the Pheu Thai party, Bhumjaithai officials expressed concerns about not equitably distributing the anticipated high revenues from gambling and the potential for the project to span multiple legislative periods.
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