Thailand’s Senate rejected the draft bill to introduce integrated resorts with casinos, pointing to concerns over social stability, economic security, and national safety.
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Thailand bans gambling tourism to Cambodia
Thailand is tightening controls at its border with Cambodia to stop casino-related tourism and combat cybercrime.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced that tourists heading to Cambodian casinos will no longer be allowed to cross the border or fly into destinations like Siem Reap. Travel will now be limited to essential reasons only, such as medical treatment, education, or picking up necessary goods.
The Thai government is also tightening border checks and has blocked internet access to Cambodian military and security networks.
A recent border clash that left a Cambodian soldier dead has made the tension between the two countries way worse. In response to Thailand’s new restrictions, Cambodia blocked Thai imports, including electricity, fuel, and internet services.
Recently, the UN flagged Cambodia as a hotspot for illegal iGaming and cybercrime. As a response, Thailand’s army has ordered all Thai workers at Cambodian casinos to stay home, and tourists hoping to gamble to forget about their hopes.
Casinos in Poipet, a border town popular with Thai gamblers, are feeling the impact. One major operator, Donaco International, reported a sharp drop in casino traffic and hotel stays.
Cambodia has asked the International Court of Justice to help resolve the dispute. But Thailand rejected the idea, saying international mediation might not help in such a sensitive situation.
Thailand’s new Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has made it clear that casinos will not be legalized during his tenure.
In his first direct comment on the issue since...
