Thai casinos could fuel corruption and human trafficking, newspaper says
Thailand could become Asia-Pacific's next big casino frontier. But critics say adding integrated resorts in the Southeast Asian country could lead to more corruption and increase human trafficking.
In a new editorial, the Bangkok Post has highlighted the plight of 164 Thai nationals trapped in Myanmar's neighboring Shan state due to armed clashes between government forces and rebel groups. Some Thais are attracted to Myanmar to work in call centers and casinos. But others may be caught by traffickers who want to force their victims to work in arcades against their will.
Myanmar's casinos are located just across the border from Thailand and are believed to be used for more than just gambling. These other a activities are often shameful.
These operations are more than just gambling. The caves are reportedly involved in drug and human trafficking and are considered safe havens for money laundering.According to a Post editorial. “By working with corrupt Thai officials and Thai conspirators, if these illicit funds are then transferred back to Thailand and laundered through the purchase of real estate, supercars and luxury designer accessories, No wonder. "
The publication noted that the Thai government has long had tough rhetoric on people smuggling but has offered few tangible solutions to the problem.
Thai politicians investigate casinos
Casinos in Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar, which border Thailand, differ significantly from integrated resorts in other Asia-Pacific markets such as Macau and Singapore.
Thai policymakers are exploring the possibility of allowing traditional, regulated gambling venues, and last month they announced the formation of a committee to review the matter. Thailand does not have the same gaming infrastructure as other countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including Macau, the Philippines, Singapore and South Korea. But the country is showing signs of increasing openness to integrated resorts.
It is widely believed that when Thailand finally approves regulated casino hotels, the country will attract offers from some of the biggest names in the gaming industry. The Post noted that while it would be good for government revenue, the increase in casinos in Thailand could lead to more people smuggling.
iGaming is also supported by a recent study that recommended expanding casinos into Thailand, which the newspaper said could attract scammers from neighboring countries.
Thailand casino plan has corruption issues
Even if Thailand ultimately decides to allow regulated gaming venues, the country’s reputation for rampant corruption may deter some of the high-profile operators the government hopes to attract.
It is often said that the approval of new casino hotels involves backroom deals and payments, especially outside the United States.
Thailand ranks 101 out of 180 countries in Transparency.org's 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). The country's CPI score is just 36 out of 100.
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Source: www.casino.org
