On January 13, 2025, Thailand’s Cabinet, under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, approved the Draft Entertainment Complex Act, a landmark regulatory framework designed to govern integrated entertainment complexes. Developed by the Fiscal Policy Office under the Ministry of Finance, this draft legislation aims to boost tourism, attract foreign investment, and drive sustainable economic growth.
A key feature of the Act is a THB 5,000 entry fee for Thai nationals accessing entertainment complexes. With comprehensive licensing requirements, operational guidelines, and regulatory oversight, the law establishes a robust structure for managing Thailand’s entertainment sector while balancing economic benefits with social responsibility.
Key Provisions of the Entertainment Complex Act
1. Classification of Entertainment Complexes
The Act defines entertainment complexes as multi-purpose venues that may include:
✓ Hotels, department stores, and restaurants
✓ Nightclubs, pubs, and bars
✓ Sports stadiums and amusement parks
✓ Yacht and cruising clubs
✓ Casinos (limited to a designated proportion within the complex)
✓ Cultural areas and OTOP (One Tambon One Product) retail spaces
✓ Other businesses as determined by the Policy Committee
2. Regulatory Oversight & Licensing Requirements
The Act mandates the formation of three regulatory bodies to oversee the industry:
✓ The Comprehensive Entertainment Business Policy Committee
✓ The Executive Committee
✓ The Office for the Regulation of Comprehensive Entertainment Business
Licenses will be valid for 30 years with five-year compliance reviews and renewal options in 10-year increments. Establishing an entertainment complex requires:
✓ A Thai-registered company with a minimum paid-up capital of THB 10 billion.
✓ Exemption from Foreign Business Act (FBA) restrictions for licensed public companies.
✓ Approval from the Policy Committee for all operational and structural modifications.
Failure to comply may lead to license revocation and financial penalties.
Casino Operations & Restrictions
1. Permitted Casino Activities
Casinos within entertainment complexes can offer:
✓ Table games (e.g., blackjack, poker, baccarat, dice games)
✓ Electronic and mechanical gaming machines (e.g., slot machines)
All gaming equipment must adhere to strict regulatory standards and undergo periodic inspections.
2. Entry Restrictions & Prohibited Activities
Casinos are subject to strict entry and security controls, prohibiting access to:
✓ Persons under 20 years old
✓ Individuals banned by authorities
✓ Thai nationals who have not paid the THB 5,000 entry fee
✓ Other restricted individuals under regulatory guidelines
Additionally, online gambling is strictly prohibited, and casinos cannot offer remote gaming services via the internet or electronic devices.
Legal Framework for Gambling Credit & Debt Enforcement
✓ Casinos may extend credit to players under regulations set by the Policy Committee.
✓ Gambling debts incurred within the framework of this Act will be legally enforceable.
Operational & Compliance Requirements
Entertainment complex operators must:
1. Adhere to approved business plans and obtain prior approval for any modifications.
2. Implement strict security measures and social risk mitigation strategies.
3. Comply with land lease regulations, with a maximum lease term of 50 years, extendable for 49 additional years.
4. Secure approval for any change in ownership, management, or share pledging.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The Act outlines strict penalties for violations:
✓ Failure to comply with corrective orders → License revocation
✓ Fines up to THB 500,000 per day for regulatory breaches
✓ Fines of THB 100,000 per unauthorized casino entry
Next Steps in the Legislative Process
The government will now focus on drafting and enacting subordinate legislation under the Act. The estimated cost of implementation is THB 300 million over the first three years, requiring 50 regulatory staff members.
Conclusion & Industry Implications
The Entertainment Complex Act marks a significant regulatory shift in Thailand’s entertainment and tourism landscape. By introducing clear licensing, operational, and compliance requirements, the law opens new investment opportunities while ensuring strict regulatory oversight.
Key Takeaways for Investors & Businesses:
✓ Monitor upcoming regulations to ensure full compliance.
✓ Assess investment opportunities in Thailand’s entertainment complex sector.
✓ Prepare for compliance audits and five-year assessments to secure license renewals.
The Act is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting Thailand’s tourism and entertainment industries, positioning the country as a regional hub for integrated entertainment destinations.