Bangkok: The grand opening of Thailand’s first poker demonstration competition is set to invigorate the economy, potentially generating tens of billions of baht annually. Mr. Kritsada Tantherdtit, Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, inaugurated the event at the WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition 2025, held at the Emsphere Shopping Mall in Bangkok. The ceremony was graced by Police Major General Latthasanya Piansomphan, President of the Thailand Poker Association, Mr. Michael Zhang, General Manager of Asia Pacific of the World Poker Tour (WPT), along with poker players and officials.
According to Thai News Agency, the World Poker Tour (WPT), in collaboration with the Thailand Poker Association, is organizing this pioneering event following the Sports Authority of Thailand’s (SAT) recognition of poker as a sport. The tournament, which commenced on July 30th and will run until August 5th, is taking place at the Emsphere Shopping Mall. It has attracted over 300 international participants and 1,000 specta
tors, including world-class athletes.
Mr. Kritsada emphasized that the WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition 2025 is an opportunity to educate the public about poker as a globally recognized sport. He highlighted that the event is anticipated to bring at least 10 billion baht in annual revenue through tourism. Thailand, home to renowned poker players like Punnat Punsri, is poised to become a significant player in the global poker community.
Police Major General Latthasanya Piensomphan noted that the tournament aims to enhance Thailand’s image as a hub for international sports and tourism events. By providing a platform for experience exchange among participants, the event is expected to boost economic activities and strengthen investor and tourist confidence in Thailand’s potential.
The Thailand Poker Association is currently working towards official registration with the SAT as the Sports Association of Thailand. The association has already received significant interest from Thai poker players, indicating the spo
rt’s growing popularity within the country.
Punnat Punsri, ranked No. 1 in the Global Poker Index for 2024, expressed optimism about poker’s recognition as a sport in Thailand. He believes this development will attract foreign players and foster career opportunities in the field. With over 100 participants already involved in the event, Punnat anticipates continued growth in the Thai poker scene.