Widespread resistance despite proposed economic benefits; referendum support gains momentum
Majority Reject Government’s Casino Legalisation Plans
A recent nationwide survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) has revealed overwhelming opposition among Thai citizens to the government’s proposed casino-inclusive entertainment complexes. Conducted between 16–18 June 2025, the poll surveyed 1,310 adults across various age, gender and income groups, providing a broad snapshot of national sentiment ahead of the first parliamentary reading of the controversial Entertainment Complex Bill.
According to the data, 56.72% of respondents rejected both casinos and the broader concept of entertainment complexes, showing little appetite for a shift in Thailand’s long-standing gambling restrictions. By contrast, only 24.12% supported both components of the proposal, while 8.78% approved of non-gambling entertainment centres.
Economic Incentives Fail to Sway Public Opinion
Perhaps most tellingly, 78.21% of participants remained opposed even when informed that revenue generated from the proposed complexes would fund public services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The idea that such developments could contribute an estimated THB12bn–THB39bn (US$326m–US$1.06bn) annually has done little to shift the public’s perception.
Even the assurance that no state budget would be allocated to the construction or maintenance of the complexes did not sway opposition. In fact, 84.15% of those opposed said they would not change their view under any circumstance, underscoring the moral and social concerns deeply rooted in Thai society regarding gambling.
Referendum Gains Support Amid Political Skepticism
The findings also point to growing mistrust in the political process, with 61.6% of respondents calling for a national referendum to determine the future of casino legislation—emphasising a demand for direct democratic input on an issue that touches on public ethics, national identity, and economic policy.
Furthermore, 37.1% of those surveyed believed the bill might be considered in Parliament but ultimately rejected, while 27.48% expected further delays in its progression. Only 19.85% felt confident that the proposal would pass its first reading in early July.
A Political and Social Crossroads
The results present a significant roadblock for the current Thai administration, which has framed the Entertainment Complex Bill as a vehicle for post-pandemic economic recovery and international tourism revival. However, with large-scale citizen opposition and mounting concerns from tourism and religious organisations, the government now faces a complex balancing act between public opinion, political ambition, and projected economic gains.
Should lawmakers choose to push forward without broader public consensus, the risk of backlash and civic unrest looms large. As the debate intensifies, the poll underscores that transparency, inclusivity, and respect for social values will be crucial in shaping the future of regulated entertainment and gambling in Thailand.
Bottom line: Despite ambitious fiscal projections, Thai citizens remain deeply sceptical of casino legalisation. Without meaningful public engagement—likely through a referendum—the proposed Entertainment Complex Bill may struggle to overcome both ethical opposition and political inertia.
