Recent survey results on Thailand’s proposed casino legalization have drawn attention, with gaming expert Daniel Cheng emphasizing the reliability of controlled polling methods amid contrasting findings.
“The NIDA poll, which uses a control group, offers a higher confidence level and more accurately reflects Thai public sentiment on casino legalization compared to the open online feedback process organized by the Fiscal Policy Office of the Ministry of Finance,” Cheng explained in a LinkedIn post. “For definitive clarity on the public mandate, local referendums are the most reliable approach.”
As reported by AGB, a survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA Poll) found that a majority of Thai citizens were concerned about the government’s plan to legalize casinos. Among respondents, 32.6 percent feared legalized casinos could increase vice and undermine national security, while 30.2 percent doubted the policy’s economic benefits.
Additionally, 28.1 percent expressed concerns about a rise in gambling addiction, 24.9 percent worried about potential money laundering activities, and 24.7 percent questioned the government’s ability to prevent criminal activities linked to casino complexes.
In contrast, a separate consultation conducted by the Fiscal Policy Office of the Ministry of Finance just one day later indicated strong public support for the casino bill.
During the 15-day public hearing period, over 71,000 respondents participated, with 80.75 percent expressing approval for the proposed entertainment complex plan. Many participants even suggested easing regulations on locals’ entry and gaming floor space.
Notably, the Ministry of Finance is leading the legalization process, with Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat — a key figure from Thailand’s ruling party — being one of the main proponents of casino legalization. Julapun has been actively involved in discussions with the Council of State regarding the draft bill for entertainment complexes that include casinos and has emphasized their economic benefits.
In March, the Thailand’s Cabinet postponed the final deliberation on the controversial casino bill, citing the need for a thorough review and public consultation. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured that all concerns would be addressed before any decision is made.
