Gambling law dispute escalates as Thailands ex-PM join critics
Former Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has strongly criticised the governments plan to legalise land-based 바카라s and online gambling, warning that such measures could worsen social problems. Speaking at a seminar on gambling initiatives, that legalising 바카라s and online betting would increase household debt and crime rates.?
I disagree with the plan this is dangerous. Online gambling, in particular, will have a negative impact on society, he stated. His remarks were reported by the Bangkok Post on Monday.
Abhisit, who led Thailand as a Democrat Party prime minister from 2008 to 2011, questioned the economic benefits of legal gambling. While acknowledging the governments arguments, he urged caution, warning that jobs in the 바카라 sector might be taken by migrant workers rather than benefiting Thai citizens. He also expressed concerns over potential money laundering through gambling channels and called for strict legal oversight.
50 Days to assess the bill
The Pheu Thai Party, currently in power, proposed the policy during its 2023 election campaign, arguing it would generate tax revenue, create jobs, and attract tourists. Thailands cabinet approved the Entertainment Complex Bill for 바카라 legalisation in principle on 13 January.
The countrys legal review body has been given 50 days to assess the bill before it is presented to the House of Representatives for deliberation. The proposed legislation marks a significant shift in Thailands approach to gambling, which has long been restricted. If passed, it would open the door to a regulated 바카라 industry, a move that continues to spark debate over its economic and social implications.
However, concerns over the negative effects of gambling remain prominent. On 3 February 2025, Thai authorities arrested 218 individuals, described as gamblers or bookmakers, at an alleged illegal gambling venue in Nakhon Nayok province. Law enforcement officials seized gambling chips and cash worth approximately THB3 million (82,500) during a raid in Ongkharak district.
Crackdown on illegal gambling activities
In a separate development, Thailand suspended power and Internet access to five areas in Myanmar bordering Tak and Chiang Rai provinces. Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the move aimed to disrupt call-centre scam operations believed to be operating from Myanmar.
The crackdown aligns with Thailands efforts to strengthen ties with China. The timing of the operation coincided with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatras visit to China, amid growing concerns raised by Chinese authorities regarding the trafficking of Chinese tourists by criminal gangs in Thailand.
Thailand has been intensifying efforts to combat organised crime, including illegal gambling and cyber fraud networks that often operate across borders. The governments latest measures highlight its commitment to addressing regional security concerns while reinforcing diplomatic relations with Beijing.
Thai Border Patrol Police also intercepted a truck carrying brand-new gambling equipment, including baccarat tables, playing cards, and 바카라 chips, en route to a 바카라 in Myanmars Myawaddy district. The seizure took place in Mae Sot, despite Thailands recent move to cut electricity and fuel exports to Myanmar in an effort to curb transnational crime, particularly call-centre scams.
The intensifying crackdown on gambling and cross-border criminal activity reflects Thailands broader efforts to disrupt transnational networks operating along its borders. As debates continue over the governments proposed legalisation of 바카라s, the country faces increasing pressure to balance economic benefits with potential social and security risks.
