Published on: November 2, 2025, 07:47h.
Updated on: November 2, 2025, 07:47h.
- Thai Prime Minister Anutin has renounced efforts to legalize casinos
- Anutin informed Chinese President Xi that Thailand will not permit gambling resorts
Just a few months ago, Thailand appeared ready to join the ranks of China, the Philippines, Vietnam, and South Korea in establishing casino resorts. However, a recent scandal involving the Phitsanulok Mansion and a shift in government have diminished the likelihood of Thailand becoming a gaming-friendly nation.
Unlike his predecessor, who was removed from office, Thai PM Anutin Charnvirakul has taken a firm stance against casino gambling. At the recent Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting, he reiterated his commitment to a strict “no casino policy.”
Anutin emphasized his anti-gambling position in a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose country is recognized as the second-largest economy globally. China allows casinos in Macau, one of its Special Administrative Regions.
The historical bond between Thailand and China has thrived in economic and diplomatic initiatives.
Importance of the No Casino Pledge
As Thailand’s largest trading ally, China considers Thailand among its major sources of tourists. With a population exceeding 72 million, China serves as a prime travel destination for Thai citizens, particularly the popular gambling hub of Macau, which is just a short flight away from Bangkok.
The previous efforts by former PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra to authorize casinos were met with resistance from China, which feared that such developments would negatively impact tourism in Macau and other mainland resorts. Shinawatra had argued that casinos would rejuvenate Thailand’s economy and attract new visitors.
After she was ousted for making critical comments about the military during a leaked conversation, Anutin was elected by the National Assembly and promptly abandoned the casino legalization initiative.
“We have various alternatives to enhance Thailand’s economy, leveraging the skills of our people, local products, and indigenous technology,” Anutin remarked following his discussion with Xi, as per The Nation.
Anutin revealed to the press that Xi “commended” his commitment against casinos. Xi further stated that while China would not have interfered with Thailand’s casino decisions, he would implement measures to restrict outbound travel for Chinese individuals solely for gambling purposes.
With the casino discussions seemingly settled, Anutin and Xi proclaimed their meeting—which celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China—establishing a collaborative vision for a “secure and thriving future.”
Suspension of Gaming Legislation
Anutin, representing the Bhumjaithai Party, which opposed Shinawatra’s initiatives before her fall from grace, now leads the ruling party in the National Assembly. Shinawatra’s Pheu Thai Party has transitioned to the opposition.
Anutin indicated that the gaming legislation previously championed by Pheu Thai, which proposed up to five casino resorts including two in Bangkok and one each in Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, has been postponed.