The government is making significant progress on online gambling legalization, with the framework expected to be finalized within a month.
On Monday, the cabinet approved a proposal by the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry to establish a legal structure for online gambling. DES Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong stated on Tuesday that this proposal involves amending secondary laws created by ministers before moving to any major legislative changes requiring parliamentary approval.
Amendments to the secondary laws will involve collaboration between the DES, the Ministry of Interior, and the Council of State. This process is expected to take about a month.
Prasert explained that the initiative aims to regulate underground gambling activities, bring them under legal control, and ensure proper taxation. He emphasized that this aligns with the government’s policy of legalizing informal sectors to boost state revenue.
Popular Activities Under Review
Online football betting, which enjoys wide popularity among Thai citizens, is one of the main areas under consideration. Other activities, including traditional sports like cockfighting and digital gambling, are also being reviewed.
When questioned about whether three agencies are sufficient for the task, Prasert mentioned that additional organizations might be involved if needed. Public hearings will also be conducted after approvals.
Uncertainty Over Management
The decision on whether online gambling will be managed by the government or private entities remains undecided. This will depend on the specifics outlined in the amended secondary laws.
Prasert clarified that the cabinet briefly addressed the issue during Monday’s meeting. However, the matter gained attention after former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra referenced it during a recent campaign in Chiang Rai, overshadowing the cabinet’s approval of the Entertainment Complex Bill.
