Most Thais Oppose Casino and Online Gambling Plans: Survey
A recent survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) has revealed that a large portion of Thai citizens are against the government’s proposals to legalize casinos and online gambling. According to the poll, which surveyed 1,310 people on January 20 and 21, 2025, 69% of respondents opposed online gambling, while 59% disapproved of plans to establish entertainment complexes that include casinos. Only 29% of those surveyed expressed support for both proposals.
The government, led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has been pushing for the legalization of casinos and online gambling in an effort to boost tourism and attract foreign investment. Proponents of the policy argue that it could generate significant revenue for the country, pointing to the success of neighboring countries such as Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines, which have thriving casino industries. The Thai government is hoping to tap into this potential and position the country as a major destination for gambling tourism, in turn helping to stimulate the economy.
Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, father of the current prime minister, has been a vocal supporter of the gambling initiatives. Thaksin has estimated that legalized gambling could generate around 100 billion baht (roughly $3 billion) annually for the government, making it a potentially lucrative industry for the country.
However, public opinion appears to be significantly less enthusiastic. The NIDA survey highlights concerns about the social consequences of gambling. Many respondents expressed fears that legalizing gambling could lead to a rise in family issues, debt problems, and crime. Others pointed to Thailand’s cultural and religious values, with a significant portion of the population believing that gambling is inconsistent with the country’s Buddhist heritage.
This is not the first time Thailand has explored the idea of legalizing gambling. In September 2024, the government announced plans to move forward with establishing a mega entertainment complex that would feature casinos, after a public hearing revealed that 80% of participants were in favor of the proposal. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat emphasized that the government would continue to refine the bill based on public feedback before submitting it to the cabinet for approval.
Despite the initial optimism, the recent NIDA poll suggests that public sentiment has shifted, with more Thai citizens now opposed to the legalization of both casinos and online gambling. The shift in opinion underscores the challenges the government faces in balancing the potential economic benefits of the industry with the concerns of the general public.
The government has yet to finalize its plans, and it remains uncertain how it will respond to the growing opposition. While the proposal has the potential to provide a significant economic boost, it is clear that the Thai public is divided on the issue, with many prioritizing cultural values and social concerns over economic gain.
As the debate continues, the Thai government will need to carefully consider the public’s concerns and weigh the long-term impact of legalizing gambling. The decision will have profound implications for the country’s social fabric and economy, and it remains to be seen how policymakers will navigate the complex dynamics surrounding this contentious issue.