Thailand is looking to cash in on online gambling. The government will soon start talks to make internet betting legal here, according to Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong.
The goal is to boost the economy and control the current black market for online gambling. Right now a ton of visitors place secret internet bets through illegal sites based abroad. This causes issues like fraud and money laundering.
The Deputy PM urged all departments to collaborate on studying how to regulate online gambling properly. They aim to have a full report within months.
If legislation passes, Thailand could see a surge in new casinos, sports books, poker cardrooms and other gaming sites. Businesses would pay taxes and create jobs. Citizens could legally play safely without fear of criminal groups.
There's clearly an appetite for it here. The government just needs to make sure the house always wins.