City Mayor, Mr. Poramase Ngampiches, has voiced his support for the draft of the “Comprehensive Entertainment Facilities Act,” which paves the way for the development of entertainment complexes in Thailand, including legal casinos.
Speaking to the Thai media on March 25th, 2024, Mr. Poramase stated that he sees this project as a chance to create a new economic dimension for Pattaya, similar to Singapore’s successful tourism model.
However, Mr. Poramase stressed that although he agrees with the project, the Thai government needs to have clear regulations in place first to limit the project’s potential negative effects. The mayor further highlighted the possibility of developing the complex on a large area like in Jomtien near Pattaya, which has large enough available land as the complex could take up to over 1,000 rai.
Meanwhile, Mr. Wattanaphon Phonchiwin, President of the Chonburi Real Estate Association, revealed that the project could have several benefits for Pattaya such as job creation, increased residential demand, better tourism, and an overall positive impact on the city’s economy.
Mr. Wattanaphon believed Pattaya’s proximity to U-Tapao Airport, and existing tourism infrastructure make it a prime location for the project. One full-scale entertainment complex could create up to 20,000 jobs for the local economy and significantly boost investments near the complex, Mr. Wattanaphon added.
“At present, (illegal) casinos already exist in Thailand. If the government can legalize them, it would be beneficial. It’s an appropriate time to pursue this project,” Mr. Wattanaphon said.
Phuket, another major tourist destination, has also expressed interest in the project. However, Mr. Phatthanan Pitsuthwimol, Former President of the Phuket Real Estate Association, disclosed that there are differing opinions.
He stated that even though some people fully support building an entertainment complex in Phuket due to its benefits, others argue that Phuket already welcomes numerous tourists annually, so the complex might not be necessary. Critics instead suggest building the complex in secondary cities to boost the economy.
creditTPM
