Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra expressed his anticipation that the casino resort bidding process in the country will be both competitive and transparent, noting that gaming companies that succeed in obtaining licenses will demonstrate their capability to enhance tourism and increase tax revenues for Bangkok. 

During an event in Nakhon Phanom over the weekend, Thaksin expressed his optimism that Thailand will enact casino gaming legislation by the end of this year. This might set the stage for the bidding process to commence shortly after.

"The truth is the license will be given out by means of open bidding in which any interested parties could compete,” Thaksin said, as reported by The Bangkok Post. “(Bidders) will have to propose what they have to offer in terms of tourism benefits and tax revenue for the government.”

His remarks are significant not just due to his status as a former prime minister, but also because he is the father of the current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and because Thaksin is still an influential figure in the governing Pheu Thai Party. 

Thaksin Draws Inspiration from Singapore's Casino Model 

Many think that Thailand might grant up to five casino licenses initially, with speculation pointing to two in Bangkok and one in the Eastern Economic Corridor, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. 

Thaksin reinforced the opinion that Thailand ought to adopt the Singapore integrated resort approach, indicating that the gaming establishments in the Southeast Asian country shouldn’t monopolize casino areas nor depend on local funding and visitors. The ex-prime minister stated that he wishes each entertainment complex will generate a minimum of 20,000 jobs. 

“Like in Singapore, the casino here will take up less than 10% of the space in the entertainment complex which will have many other activities to offer tourists,” said Thaksin by way of The Post. “It has to leave Thai people better off. All too often, people find all that’s left when they put their hands in their pockets are pawn tickets.”

Thai casinos are anticipated to adopt a model similar to Macau's, where a concessionaire system will be used, creating a partnership between the government and gaming firms. 

When it comes to Macau... 

As new markets with potential are scarce and the Asia Pacific region appeals to gaming firms, several major players in the industry, including those active in Macau, are anticipated to seek licenses in Thailand. 

Included are Galaxy Entertainment, Melco Resorts & Entertainment led by Lawrence Ho, and MGM China. MGM Resorts International holds a 56% ownership stake in MGM China. 

There’s also conjecture that Las Vegas Sands and Wynn Resorts, which together manage seven Macau integrated resorts, will be among the contenders for casino licenses in Thailand.