Good morning. All eyes are on Bangkok. And while Thai officials have indicated that the Bangkok Port is a potential location for a possible future IR, the logistics necessary to shape it into a viable and attractive long-term tourism destination mean that it’s unlikely to be the first location to open a casino in the country. Still, massive potential awaits, if it follows success stories such as Singapore’s Marina Bay. Meanwhile, in Macau, expectations are for GGR growth to continue this year, with Seaport predicting a 7 percent annual rise. Larger operators stand to benefit this year and going forward, as smaller players bleed market share.
What you need to know
- Bangkok Port is unlikely to be the location for Thailand’s first casino, requiring extensive time and effort for comprehensive urban planning.
- Seaport sees 7% GGR growth for Macau in 2025, with Sands, Galaxy, and larger operators benefiting as smaller ones lose ground.

On the radar
- POGO ban not the primary reason for office space vacancy increase: CBRE.
- PH police investigate misuse of local government images by online lotto app.
- Thai economy to expand by more than 3% in 2025, boosted by Chinese tourism.
- Strong hotel bookings push Macau’s occupancy rate toward 90% for CNY.
- Over 5,000 Australians targeted by illegal POGO hub.
- Changi Airport misses 2019 passenger record in 2024, 2025 growth to slow.
AGB Intelligence
THAILAND

Bangkok Port unlikely to house nation’s first casino
Strict urban planning, infrastructure and transportation arrangements, zoning and synergy with new legislation will all be essential in elevating the Bangkok Port as a potential destination for a new IR complex in the city. But given the logistics, expert Daniel Cheng opines that the zone is highly unlikely to host Thailand’s first casino. This shouldn’t discourage the issuance of an entertainment zone license for the area, however, as it is likely to be a top pick for operators wanting to enter the market.
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