During an interview at the government building, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Buddhipongse Punnakanta, responded to the progress of regulations related to online gambling. He mentioned that the joint working group, consisting of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the Ministry of Interior, and the Office of the Council of State, has organized two meetings but has not yet reached a conclusion. He expects a conclusion after one more meeting.
When asked about the scope of online gambling, Buddhipongse stated that the Ministry of Interior would delineate it according to the Gambling Act. However, since this law has been implemented for many years and does not contain provisions related to online gambling, it needs to be amended and supplemented. When asked if this means that the law needs to be amended first, he clarified that it is not necessarily the case. Currently, the consideration is whether to issue a decree or departmental regulations, and it is not yet determined what will be included, but it is certain that it will cover existing forms of underground football and boxing betting.
Furthermore, when asked if the Council of State has concerns about online gambling, Buddhipongse mentioned that they are currently defining the meanings of certain terms. Regarding when the matter will be submitted to the cabinet for consideration, he believes it will not exceed March and could extend into April. Relevant departments are intensifying their efforts, and once the work is completed and there is a preliminary mutual understanding of the basic principles, a draft of the secondary legislation will be prepared. This process should not exceed April.
In addition, Buddhipongse also responded to the issue of electronic cigarettes being sold through online channels, making them more accessible and purchasable by children and teenagers. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has collaborated with relevant departments to block online sales channels, but new channels may emerge. Subsequent actions will be coordinated with the National Police Agency to tackle this issue.
Moreover, Buddhipongse reiterated that selling electronic cigarettes is illegal, and according to the Computer Act, it also involves the introduction of illegal data, with violators being subject to legal penalties.
