The idea first emerged in December, but several civil society groups oppose it. A special committee is called to report on the economic benefits and social repercussions of casinos. Domestic and international developments, such as Macau’s crisis, could help the initiative.
Bangkok (AsiaNews) – Last December, the Thai government announced that it was setting up a 60-member committee to consider plans to build a number of casinos across the country. Last week, the government gazette made the decision official.
Despite the government’s initiative, casinos remain controversial in Thailand; nevertheless, they are seen by many in the business community as a way to jumpstart the post-pandemic economic recovery and attract foreign visitors, far and wide.
So far, religious and ethical considerations against gambling in the predominantly Buddhist country have stilled government…
