Thai Government Delays Debating Entertainment Complex Bill, Which Includes Casinos, Amid Opposition and Trade Concerns

The Entertainment Complex Bill, a flagship initiative of the Pheu Thai Party-led government, has been a lightning rod for debate. Proponents argue it could boost tourism and generate big revenue, while critics warn of social harms like gambling addiction and organized crime. Rumors swirled earlier this week that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a key Pheu Thai figure, had pressured coalition partners to support the bill or risk expulsion from the government. Sorawong Thienthong, the party’s secretary-general, swiftly denied these claims, calling them “untrue and unfair” in a statement to Thai media.

However, the bill’s progress was halted as Paetongtarn, Thailand’s youngest-ever prime minister, prioritized more immediate crises. Speaking to reporters, she cited the need to address the aftermath of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, with tremors causing a deadly construction site collapse in Bangkok. “We cannot ignore the people’s safety and the economic challenges ahead,” she said, referencing both the disaster and the looming tariff situation with the U.S.

The earthquake’s impact continues to reverberate in Thailand. The collapse of a high-rise under construction near Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market killed multiple workers, with dozens still missing, with rescue efforts winding down this week and moving to recovery. Specialized dog units were recalled on April 7 after recovering two more bodies, though uncertainty persists over the final tally of missing persons.

Compounding the situation, Thailand faces new economic headwinds from U.S. trade policy. On April 5, President Trump introduced a 36% tariff on Thai goods effective April 9. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira outlined a response strategy, including increased U.S. imports and tax breaks on American products to soften the blow. “We’re adapting to protect our economy,” Pichai told reporters, signaling a pivot in trade relations.

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) plummeted 3.76% on April 8, reflecting investor fears of a broader trade war. For a nation reliant on exports, these tariffs threaten industries from electronics to agriculture, forcing the government to juggle domestic recovery with international diplomacy.

The delay of the casino bill has drawn mixed responses. Coalition partners expressed relief at avoiding a divisive vote, while opposition figures accused the government of dodging accountability. On social media, Thai netizens debated the decision, with some praising the focus on urgent issues and others decrying it as a stalling tactic for an unpopular policy.