Thai tourism industry calls for coordination of integrated entertainment complex plans
The Thai government’s initiative to develop integrated entertainment complexes, including casinos, has sparked enthusiasm and skepticism within the tourism industry. While stakeholders express hope that such developments will energize the economy, some question whether such benefits will outweigh the potential downsides.
WeRawit Cruasumbat, president of Phuket’s Pathong Entertainment Business Association (PEBA), supports the idea of an integrated complex with casinos in major tourist areas. He stresses the need for a comprehensive approach that considers tax rules to attract investors and strengthen financial circulation in the country. WeRawit, cited by the Bangkok Post, suggests that areas such as Thalang district, close to Phuket airport, could be ideal places for such projects rather than crowded downtown areas.
Reflecting this sentiment, Mayor Noppon Utikul Hua Hin says he is ready to support the entertainment complex in the town in line with the government’s artificial tourism policy. However, he stresses that expanding the local airport to accommodate international flights can help attract more foreign tourists to the region. He points out that the economic downturn has significantly affected local attractions, causing companies that rely on tourism to suffer financially. Mayor Noppon suggests adding sports complexes to promote international competitions and supports promoting Anghin as a major tourist destination.
Sanya Luangwatanakul, president of the Khaosan Business Association in Bangkok, agrees with the government’s efforts to boost tourism through an entertainment complex with casinos. He believes that this could lead to significant revenues for Thailand. “If casinos are properly regulated by law, Thailand could be the perfect choice for tourists, with its wide range of entertainment options offering natural attractions and tourism experiences,” he said. Sanya claims that secondary cities could benefit more from these developments, suggesting that profits could be used to improve other areas, such as education.
Infrastructure development required
Bunanan Patanasin, president of the Pattaya-Chonburi Business and Tourism Association, points out that joint ventures between Thai and foreign investors are rampant in Pattaya, which has various international attractions. He stresses the need for laws to ensure fair competition and control funding sources, and urges the government to provide regulatory support along with encouraging investment. “The government should also support operators in terms of laws and regulations as well as encouraging investment,” he added.
On the contrary, the Phuket Tourism Association (PTA), led by President Thanet Tantipiriakit, expresses doubts about the casino components of the proposed entertainment complex. He questions whether casinos will have a significant impact on the number of tourists, especially when it comes to repeat visitors. “I believe that Phuket’s appeal lies in its natural beauty, culture, and many unique features that have attracted returning tourists from around the world and created economic growth,” explains Thanet. He warns against relying on casino-focused tourism that thrives in areas without natural attractions.
The PTA also raises concerns that investors need at least 10 billion baht of registered capital, particularly in favor of large corporations over local companies. Tanet highlights the need to develop infrastructure such as improved roads and public transportation, which is critical to maintaining tourism growth. He warns that an influx of large foreign investors could jeopardize local interests as they may prioritize profits over community welfare. In fact, Inside Asian Gaming reports MGM Resorts International is one of the big global companies ready to invest in integrated resorts in Thailand.
Deputy Finance Minister Hulafun Amorbibat recently provided an update on the progress of the entertainment compound bill, suggesting that some aspects are under review to ensure alignment with the fiscal discipline law. He confirmed that the project was going smoothly, as it had already gone through public hearings in line with a general agreement among attendees. Further discussions are planned before submitting the revised bill to the Cabinet. 에볼루션 바카라사이트