Former Thai Prime Minister Settha Taweesin, in an interview with the Matichon-Khaosod Group, clearly stated that the entertainment complex planned by the Thai government is not just a casino, but a multifunctional entertainment destination aimed at reshaping the national economy through innovative and diversified projects. He believes this will change the economic landscape and emphasized that this large-scale project must have transparency and legality.
Taweesin explained that the concept of an entertainment complex is not new, and several governments have considered similar plans. Previous administrations, including that under former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, also discussed how to regularize the grey economy, implement proper tax management, and promote legalization. The Move Forward Party government also proposed in discussions that it is necessary to bring the grey economy above ground, ensure tax transparency, and effectively manage potential risks.
Taweesin pointed out that as the head of government, his philosophy is to keep the land resources of these large projects in the hands of the government rather than letting private enterprises benefit. He mentioned that the planned entertainment complex would occupy government land, such as Klong Toei Port, covering areas like Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai, with the land area being about 3000 rai, but specific plans are still pending further decision. In principle, the casino will only occupy 5-10% of the total area of the complex, with the remaining space used for building hotels, museums, indoor stadiums, ski resorts, etc., aimed at creating a complete entertainment destination for tourists and investors.
Taweesin emphasized that Thailand needs to build world-class infrastructure to attract more international investment and tourists. For example, he mentioned that Thailand has rich natural landscapes and cuisine, but if it could offer more diverse entertainment options, such as indoor stadiums with retractable roofs, world-class concerts, and events, this would significantly extend tourists' stay and increase per capita spending.
"We cannot rely solely on traditional attractions like Phuket and Pattaya; we must develop new attractions. Establishing entertainment centers, hosting large events and exhibitions, and creating artificial ski resorts will make Thailand a more diversified tourist destination, enhancing national income," he said.
He also talked about the social issues that legal casinos might bring, especially how to effectively manage and regulate gambling behavior. Taweesin stated that the government must implement strict measures, including casino entry restrictions and regular monitoring, to ensure public safety and health and avoid the negative impacts of gambling.
However, Taweesin expressed significant concerns when discussing suspicions about Chinese grey capital. He said, "I don't understand why if there are legal casinos, grey capital would surge in. We are establishing strict rules to ensure everything is conducted within a legal framework. Problems like money laundering, which already exist through underground casinos, are completely controllable if we handle them through legal means."
He pointed out that the entertainment complex is not just for the casino but to provide more diverse investment and employment opportunities, which will promote the development of other industries. Whether through large events, tourism, or infrastructure construction, the entertainment complex will be an important driver of economic growth.
Taweesin also mentioned that the construction of the entertainment complex is a major project to stimulate the Thai economy, similar to the construction of Suvarnabhumi Airport, which will attract the attention of global tourists and investors. This move will not only increase the number of tourists but also extend their stay in Thailand, thereby boosting domestic consumption.
He concluded by saying that tourism already accounts for nearly 20% of Thailand's GDP, meaning the industry remains attractive. By building entertainment complexes and further improving infrastructure, Thailand can enhance its competitiveness in the global tourism market, reduce dependence on exports, and strengthen economic resilience, especially in the context of increasing global economic uncertainty.
