“ The real test for the Srettha government to legalise the casino business will be in establishing an internationally acceptable regulatory environment which will attract blue-chip operators
Julian Spindler , Communications consultant political and populace base [ levels ] to mitigate public opposition .”
The issues in question go beyond merely religion and morality , Suranand takes pains to explain . “ If the government is seen as giving out licences to the big conglomerates and is not clear about the benefits to the local provinces , then opposition will be stronger . At the same time , illegal gambling and online betting are rampant . Casinos will not solve those problems without strong government policy and law enforcement .”
The authorities have stepped up raids on illegal gambling rings across the country in recent months , Gushin notes , “ indicating how serious the government is in its efforts to legalise IRs in Thailand ”.
Effectively combatting illegal gambling and keep gaming spending at home means allowing local play . “ I support Thai nationals to be able to play at the facilities in Thailand ,” Suranand says . “ We have so many Thais travelling to Cambodia to gamble . It does not make sense to let them continue to do that .”
PAY FOR LOCAL PLAY
The former cabinet minister supports a Singapore-style entry tax for Thai nationals , reflecting a consensus among experts responding to iGB .
“ I was concerned until I saw it in Singapore ,” the longtime bi-continental executive says . In practice , the entry fee weeds out locals who can ’ t afford to play , so “ you don ’ t wear out the rugs as much .”
“ Barring locals would be a problem ,” Kaplan says , but crafting local play regulations will take time . “ We will
iGB L ! VE 2024 • ISSUE 136 • 47