The Government has outlined its mega-project known as “Thailand Entertainment Complex,” with the goal of moving Thailand’s economy forward, attract tourists, and enhance the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.

Deputy Minister of Finance Julapun Amornvivat explained that Thailand needs a new economic engine to cope with changes in geopolitics and the global economy, which is facing increasing competition. Many countries have introduced man-made tourism destinations to attract tourists and generate more income. The Government had, therefore, decided to adopt the Thailand Entertainment Complex model to earn more tourism revenue and create new industries, so that the country’s economy would continue to grow at an appropriate level.

He said that the Government proposed a draft bill on an integrated entertainment complex business to promote the establishment of the entertainment complex. The draft bill has already been forwarded to the House of Representatives. The Government raised this issue for consultations with the Board of Trade of Thailand, the Federation of Thai Industries, and entrepreneurs from many sectors. However, many people have expressed their concerns about the project, and better understanding of the issue must be created.

In this regard, Mr. Julapun reaffirmed that the world-class entertainment complex would operate under stringent regulations and transparency, aimed at creating new opportunities for Thailand’s tourism in the future.

Meanwhile, Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister Suksit Srichomkwan said that the entertainment complex includes, for instance, concert halls, large convention and exhibition centers, amusement parks, museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, green spaces for outdoor activities, and yacht and cruise terminals, as well as areas for selling Thai products, farm goods, food, and handicrafts.

As for a casino in the complex, he said, it will not be open to all and will be subject to strict legal measures and will not be universally accessible. This casino will have no connection to online gambling. Stringent anti-money laundering measures will also be imposed. Investment in the entertainment complex will come from the private sector and not the people’s taxes.

Tourist spending is expected to increase significantly to about 22,300 baht per trip, and tourist arrivals are likely to increase by 5-20 percent annually, with a 13 percent rise in arrivals during the low season. As a result, Thailand’s tourism will see steady growth throughout the year.

The Government believes that the entertainment complex project will also promote greater employment generation and generate between 12 and 40 billion baht in annual state revenue from tax collection.