The government unveils a 100-billion baht “Entertainment Complex” with luxury hotels, a casino, cultural centers, and more—aiming to boost GDP by 2% and attract millions of high-spending tourists. PATTAYA, Thailand – The Thai government, through the Ministry of Finance, officially presented its ambitious “Thailand Entertainment Complex” project—aimed at revitalizing the economy, enhancing tourism, and attracting global investment. Inspired by Singapore’s model, the complex will be a world-class, privately funded development estimated to cost over 100 billion baht. It is expected to generate between 12–40 billion baht in annual revenue for the state and boost Thailand’s GDP by up to 2%. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat presided over the announcement and emphasized the urgent need for new economic engines to respond to global geopolitical and economic shifts. The Entertainment Complex will be one of several “Man-Made Tourist Destinations” promoted by the government, alongside other flagship projects like the Phu Kradueng cable car, cruise terminals, and international sporting events. What Will the Entertainment Complex Include? The proposed complex will be located near major transportation hubs and popular tourist areas, maximizing accessibility and synergy with other attractions. Key components include: -A large indoor arena for concerts and events -World-class exhibition and convention centers -A luxury shopping mall and international hotel chains -A yacht marina and cruise port -A Thai cultural arts center -Michelin-star restaurants, public parks, and museums -A strictly regulated casino (land-based only) The government stressed that this project is not an “online gambling center” or “free-for-all casino,” but rather a tightly controlled and legal infrastructure-based investment. Thailand plans a world-class Entertainment Complex near major transport hubs—strictly regulated, privately funded, and projected to create over 9,000 jobs while redefining tourism and nightlife. Economic Impact and Projections According to Sueksit Srichomkwan, Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister, the Entertainment Complex is part of a broader strategy to increase tourists’ per capita spending and extend travel across all seasons. If successful, the project is projected to: -Raise GDP by 2% (approx. 200 billion baht annually) -Create 9,000–15,000 jobs -Increase tourist spending from 50,000 to 72,000 baht per trip -Boost international arrivals by 5–20% -Raise low-season tourist numbers by 13% No taxpayer money will be used—entire funding will come from private investors. Strict Regulatory Measures To address concerns over gambling and social impact, the government plans to implement stringent oversight mechanisms: -Biometric face scans and ID/passport checks for entry -Comprehensive data collection of users -Anti-money laundering protocols in line with international standards -Bans on advertising and mandatory employee training to identify problem gambling -A fund to channel gambling revenue toward education, youth development, sports, and social welfare Learning from the Region Thailand is looking at successful models from the region: in 2022, Vietnam earned 180 billion baht annually from integrated entertainment complexes, South Korea 320 billion, and Singapore 430 billion. Although Thailand is a latecomer, officials believe this gives the country a chance to develop a uniquely Thai version of the model, tailored to its culture and economic needs. The proposed law regulating the Entertainment Complex has already been drafted and submitted to Parliament. The government promises transparency, ongoing public dialogue, and a legal framework to ensure sustainable and equitable development.