Cabinet Approves Development of Massive Entertainment Complex


Bangkok: The Cabinet has given the green light for the creation of a new Entertainment Complex. The Ministry of Finance explained that this initiative is expected to create jobs and generate income for the country. Officials are preparing to submit the proposal to the Royal Decree for final approval. Concerns have been raised about gambling among Thai citizens, but the project is projected to require an investment of no less than 100 billion baht.



According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced that the meeting approved the draft of the Integrated Entertainment Business Act B.E., as proposed by the Ministry of Finance. The government aims to push the Entertainment Complex project forward, comprising various elements including tourism and sports, with a casino making up only 10 percent of the complex. A minimum fee of 5,000 baht will be required to enter the casino. The complex is intended to serve as an economic stimulant similar to those in other countries.



Mr. Pichai added that while there were objections from the Council of State, consultations with various agencies resulted in general agreement on the principle. However, there are concerns about controlling access for Thais and individuals under 20 years old. The Ministry of Finance is committed to strict supervision. The project aims to draw revenue from abroad and compete internationally by focusing on generating income from entertainment venues, including hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions, to create jobs in nearby areas.



Deputy Minister of Finance Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat stated that the draft will be submitted to the Office of the Council of State for legal adjustments, followed by submission to the House of Representatives within 2-3 months, and subsequently to the Senate. He emphasized the complex as an economic development zone, targeting world-class family tourists and high-purchasing groups by providing a variety of experiences.



The Entertainment Complex project forms part of the 7th policy to promote tourism by introducing man-made destinations such as water parks, theme parks, and shopping malls. It aims to attract concerts, festivals, and world-class sporting events to Thailand, potentially increasing foreign tourist numbers by 5%-10% annually, boosting off-season spending by 13%, and increasing per-trip spending from 44,000 baht to 66,043 baht.



The Ministry of Finance anticipates the project will increase state income by 12,037-39,427 million baht annually, generate tax revenue from associated businesses such as hotels and amusement parks (8,773-35,093 million baht per year), and revenue from casinos (at least 3,264 million baht per year). Casino entry fees could generate at least 3,700 million baht annually. This revenue is intended for national development, infrastructure improvement, and social services. The project is expected to create 9,000-15,300 jobs and increase Thai employment by 0.03-0.05%.



The initiative is set to enhance the domestic labor market, boosting related industries and creating new roles in management and operations. The Ministry of Finance assures that while tourism is a key focus, the complex is centered on entertainment, with casinos being just a small component.