After Thailand recently took steps to legalize casinos, the World Poker Tour announced a deal to bring an event to the country.
As a result, the company will host a WPT Prime event in Bangkok this year. The move further signals the government’s willingness to see gaming become part of the country’s tourism industry.
As part of the announcement, Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Thienthong and Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau Chiruit Isarangkun director Na Ayuthaya announced a joint task force to facilitate support and logistics for the event.
In January, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government drafted a bill to legalize Thai casinos. The goal is to boost tourism and to bring in new jobs and investment to the country. The WPT, and poker in general, appear to be bridging the gap toward bringing gaming to the country.
“The economic impact of the World Poker Tour is proven globally, and Thailand is the perfect place to bring this iconic tournament,” WPT Vice President of Tour and Business Keta Ozolina said.
Casinos May Be In The Works, But Face Opposition
In the country’s current legal landscape, gambling is mostly illegal. Horse racing, the lottery and some forms of sports betting are allowed, but casino gaming is completely banned.
However, there is a booming underground gambling scene highlighting the demand. A recent report found that underground gambling could be worth as much as $30 billion annually.
The government hopes the casino plan will generate $3 billion in investment in gambling and entertainment properties. Officials estimate an annual boost of 5% to 10% in visitors from outside the country and revenue of more than $359 million per year.
But casino approval isn’t a given. Some legislators have expressed opposition because of perceived social ills the industry could bring.
A recent opinion poll also showed that 59% of respondents were against adding casinos, with only 29% in support.
Regardless of the bill’s outcome, the WPT Prime event will still happen.
The tour inked the deal with the ministry of sport and tourism. In other words, the Thai government is classifying poker as a mind sport and the event can drive foreign funds into the local economy. Thienthong noted that poker qualifies as a sports activity under Thai policy.
An official date for the event hasn’t been given, but the WPT is hoping for a long-term relationship as part of “a strategic move to establish Thailand as a global center for mind sports.” The inaugural event would be held each season, eventually moving to three or four a year. The events are being held in conjunction with Thailand RF Tourism and Sports Competition Club Co., Ltd.
“This sports demonstration marks only the beginning,” RF Tourism general manager Leo Su said. “We plan to attract more world-class international events to Thailand, fostering sustainable growth in tourism and long-term economic stimulation."
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
