The 15-day public consultation period for the draft "Entertainment Complex Act" in Thailand received an overwhelmingly positive response, with over 80% of the public supporting the plan, many of whom suggested easing the entry conditions for locals and increasing the floor area ratio limits for gambling areas.
According to a summary document of the survey released by Thailand's Ministry of Finance on Monday, a total of 71,289 people participated in the response, with 80.75% supporting the push for the entertainment complex project.
The Ministry of Finance noted that public feedback includes adjusting the current draft requirement for locals to enter casinos with a fixed deposit of no less than 50 million Thai Baht (approximately 1.5 million US dollars) and a deposit period of not less than six months. Public opinion pointed out that the high entry threshold would limit potential customers, thereby affecting investment intentions and economic benefits.
The summary of opinions from the Ministry of Finance shows, "There should be a reasonable explanation for why the threshold is set at 50 million Thai Baht... otherwise, the investment in this industry will be difficult to realize."
Other public suggestions include lowering the deposit threshold to 10 million Thai Baht and allowing other assets such as land and stocks to be included in the calculation; or reducing it to 5 million Thai Baht, but simultaneously increasing the income requirements.
The summary shows, "The current deposit threshold may impose excessive restrictions on individual rights. The government should consider other options, such as setting personal gambling limits and providing information and education about responsible gambling."
Additionally, the draft act stipulates that the area within the entire entertainment complex used for gambling should not exceed 10% of the floor area.
While most operators believe that a 10% limit is sufficient, some responses in the public consultation think this ratio is too low.
Overall public opinion focused on demanding clear definitions of relevant regulations, license approvals, and regulatory clauses to prevent future law enforcement agencies from abusing their power.
Furthermore, suggestions also include operators allocating at least 1% of net profits for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities; and using 2% of casino revenues to fund anti-gambling addiction rehabilitation programs and facility construction.
The Ministry of Finance stated that these opinions will be "considered during the drafting stage of the Entertainment Complex Act," after which the draft will be submitted to the cabinet for final review.
