Thai PM says legalising casinos good for revenue and jobs, eyes entertainment project

Srettha Thavisin said the government does not want to promote gambling, but would rather supervise it and use the investment to create jobs. - PHOTO: REUTERS

BANGKOK (Reuters): Thailand's government is considering drafting a casino bill and if passed by parliament, it would generate more jobs and state revenue and allow for the creation of a mega entertainment project, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Friday.

Casinos are illegal in Thailand and the only gambling allowed is on state-controlled horse races and the lottery, though illicit gambling is commonplace, with underground casinos and soccer betting rife.