Mongkolkit Suksintharanon, party-list MP and leader of the Thai Civilized Party, posted an update online today, August 31, regarding the concept of opening a “Entertainment Complex” or a legal casino in Thailand.
The party leader stated that he would propose the establishment of a new committee to study and research the possibility of opening a legalized Entertainment Complex, which includes a casino, hotel, theme park, and other entertainment spots. Mongkolkit also believed that by legalizing the gray business, the government would earn more tax money to distribute for Thai people.
According to his statement, the conceptual entertainment project was planned to be initially located in popular tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Phitsanulok, Rayong, Ubon Ratchathani and Nakhon Ratchasima.
Mongkolkit told the Associated Press: “There are many online gambling websites running in foreign countries for Thai people. The websites were running legally while it was illegal for Thai gamblers to play. There is also no taxation charged for gamblers and the Revenue Department is still confused about the law since it is ambiguous.”
“Therefore, it is also recommended that taxation should be charged from online gambling websites for about 5-6 billion a year. Since Thailand currently has insufficient income from tourism and exports, the government should consider legalizing what is illegal and bringing the tax into the country. This should be useful for the whole country.”
