Menu
Published: September 8, 2025
Thailand’s Constitutional Court dismissed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on August 29, 2025, following an ethics scandal involving a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen. In the call, Shinawatra was heard criticizing Thailand’s military during a border clash, which opponents claimed undermined national pride. The court voted 6–3 in favor of removal, marking the fifth time a Thai prime minister has been ousted in 17 years.
The Entertainment Complex Bill proposed two integrated casino resorts in Bangkok and one each in Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. It aimed to attract international tourists and increase average spending per visitor. Major casino operators such as Las Vegas Sands, MGM, and Wynn had shown interest in Thailand. However, after Shinawatra’s suspension, the bill was removed from parliament’s agenda on July 7, 2025, effectively ending the legalization effort.
Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, has become Thailand’s new prime minister. Unlike Shinawatra, he has spoken against legal casinos, stating that gambling should not be forced on the Thai people. His administration now focuses on drafting a new constitution and preparing for early elections, with casino reform off the table.
The cancellation of Thailand’s casino plan is a setback for international investors who saw the country as a potential gaming hub. Attention may now shift to markets such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Japan, where regulatory environments are clearer. This case also serves as a reminder of how political events and regulatory frameworks can quickly reshape iGaming opportunities.
Southeast Asia remains a competitive landscape for integrated resorts and iGaming. With Thailand out of the picture for now, countries like Vietnam and the Philippines are likely to benefit from increased investor interest. Japan’s upcoming integrated resort projects further add to the regional competition.
The removal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra and the withdrawal of the Entertainment Complex Bill mean Thailand’s casino legalization is paused indefinitely. While this is a disappointment for investors and operators, it highlights the importance of stable political and legal environments in shaping iGaming markets. For now, Southeast Asia’s iGaming growth will be led by other countries more willing to embrace regulated casinos.
At Dot Connections, we track policy shifts and disruptive trends shaping the iGaming and online entertainment landscape worldwide. From compliance challenges to new market entries, our team delivers the intelligence operators and providers need to stay competitive.
🌍 If you’re planning to expand into dynamic markets in Asia, Africa, or Europe, our experts are ready to support your journey.
Follow Dot Connections for regulatory updates, market analysis, and strategic guidance on the future of iGaming.