Casinos are booming in South-East Asia

Thailand offers a wide range of attractions: lush jungles, pristine beaches, affordable drinks, and recently, easily accessible marijuana. However, those who enjoy gambling face restrictions. Apart from a government lottery and state-controlled horse racing, betting activities are prohibited. To indulge in gambling, enthusiasts often travel beyond Thailand’s borders to nearby Cambodian and Laotian towns, where casinos meet their needs.

Such trips may soon become unnecessary. Following recent liberalizations, such as the decriminalization of cannabis in 2022 and the legalization of same-sex marriages this month, Thailand is now considering legalizing casinos. Earlier this year, the Thai parliament endorsed a study on the viability of casino resorts. This approval has set the stage for potential legislation, which could be enacted within weeks, according to the deputy finance minister.

Thailand’s proposal is part of a broader gambling surge in the region. In the Philippines, where gambling is permitted, authorities aim to establish at least one additional resort every other year, adding to the existing 43. Singapore has extended the licenses of its two casino resorts, operational since 2010. Muslim-majority Malaysia, which bans gambling, is contemplating a second casino for foreigners, similar to the one in Genting Highlands, a popular tourist destination. In Cambodia, the number of licensed casinos increased from 101 in 2021 to 174 in 2023. Including casinos in Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam, there are now around 350 establishments in the region.