Thailand’s new PM expected to pursue legalized casino gaming amid political uncertainty

Thailand's newly appointed Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is expected to continue her predecessor's efforts to legalize casino gaming, industry and political experts have told Inside Gaming. However, concerns are mounting over potential resistance within the coalition government, which could hinder the progress of these plans.

Paetongtarn, the 37-year-old daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was nominated by the dominant Pheu Thai party following the ousting of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Srettha, a strong advocate for the casino initiative, was removed from office by the Constitutional Court for ethical violations, casting doubt on the future of Thailand’s integrated resort (IR) and casino plans.

Despite these uncertainties, Paetongtarn’s appointment suggests that Pheu Thai is committed to moving forward with the legalization of casino gaming. William J. Jones, Assistant Professor of International Relations at Mahidol University International College in Bangkok, expressed confidence that the new leadership would continue to prioritize this initiative. 

“Thaksin and his daughter as new PM will continue with the casino plan, as tourism including MICE [meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions] is a major plank of Pheu Thai’s economic policies,” Jones told Inside Asian Gaming.

However, Jones also highlighted the potential for opposition within the coalition, particularly from the Bhumjaithai party and Pheu Thai MP Gen. Prawit Wongsuwon. "There will be resistance within the coalition government," he said, noting that Thaksin's recent political maneuvers could complicate matters. However, "the distance between the parties can be narrowed if there isn’t strong resistance from other circles," Jones added.

An unnamed industry expert echoed this sentiment, stating that while there is broad parliamentary support for legalized casino gaming, rushing the process could be detrimental. "This PM and her government will continue to push to set up an IR and casino industry quickly," the expert said. 

"However, trying to rush such an important initiative would be a mistake, as building the legislative and regulatory foundations is imperative for attracting major international investors."

The appointment of Paetongtarn as Prime Minister has also been seen as a strategic move to reassert Thaksin's influence within Thai politics. Thaksin, who was ousted in a military coup in 2006 and spent 15 years in exile before returning to Thailand last year, is widely regarded as Pheu Thai's de facto leader. His return to the political scene could provide the party with an opportunity to advance economic policies that had stalled under Srettha’s leadership.

Pheu Thai may also gain from the challenges facing its political rivals, particularly the People’s Party, which was formed earlier this month from the remnants of the dissolved Move Forward party. 

Jones pointed out that public opposition, particularly from Buddhist groups and other segments of society, could pose a significant hurdle for Pheu Thai. "The Thai public has previously pushed back against alcohol company Thai Bev listing on the stock market," he noted. "Whether there is considerable pushback from the public and Buddhist groups on casinos is the real hurdle for political parties to get over."

Thailand's latest political developments have unfolded during a two-week public feedback period on draft casino legislation, which was released earlier in August. The legislation outlines key policies for the governance and operation of casinos in the country. The public feedback period quietly ended on Sunday, leaving the future of the proposed casino law uncertain as the government prepares to navigate the legislative process.