Your Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Thailand inches closer to legalizing casinos

Monday 16th of January 2023

Good morning. Thailand is inching towards legalizing casinos, with some form of legislation expected within two to three years. While debating potential risks, the population has overwhelmingly supported the drive, and casinos are expected to largely be placed around Bangkok and the nation's Eastern Economic Corridor. In the US, expectations are for the best GGR year on record in 2022, with tallies topping $54.4 billion in the Jan-Nov period alone. And in Macau, visitation continues to rise, with authorities hoping for 60k daily tourists during CNY.

What you need to know

Thailand moves closer to casino legalization as the House of Representatives passes review and authorities look to set up operations in Bangkok.
US gross gaming revenues expected to top out previous figures in 2022 as Jan-Nov revenues total $54.4 billion.
Macau aims for 60k daily tourists during CNY peak as tourism rebounds, hopes for increased travel avenues.

On the radar

Former chairman of failed The 13 arrested in Phuket on fraud charges.
Judges dismiss RICO case against Steve Wynn, Wynn Resorts.
Resorts World set to commence the first cruise to China since COVID.
Macau tourist price index slowed in 4Q22 by drop in hotel prices.

AGB Intelligence

THAILAND

Thailand aims for casino legalization within three years

Thailand is betting hard on casino legalization, with the House of Representatives confirming a committee report, paving the way for legislation within two or three years. The move is largely supported by the polled population, with gains offsetting potential detriments. Legalized gambling could include bricks and mortar and online, depending on how a proposed referendums pan out.