According to the National News, Julapun Amornvivat, Deputy Minister of Finance of Thailand, defended the government’s plan to develop integrated entertainment complexes (including regulated casinos) amid concerns over Thailand’s international image.

Julapun dismissed claims that legalizing gambling would damage Thailand’s reputation. He questioned whether countries such as the United States, Singapore, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates should also be labeled as part of a gray economy. He pointed out that unregulated casinos exist across Thailand, posing a greater reputational risk, and argued that regulation would provide transparency and oversight.

The minister said that recent criticisms might reflect the personal views of the Governor of the Bank of Thailand rather than the official stance of government agencies. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project, which has recently been approved by the cabinet and is currently being prepared for submission to parliament for review.

The proposed complex will include health centers, hotels, retail areas, and family entertainment zones, with the casino occupying no more than 10% of the space.

Julapun stated that the current government intends to fulfill a proposal that has been discussed for over thirty years.

He expects that, after parliamentary approval, the establishment of a regulatory body and completion of feasibility assessments will take about one year. The goal is to begin construction within three years, with an estimated investment exceeding 100 billion Thai baht.