The government invites the public to share their opinions on the draft Gambling Act through the central legal system from today until 9 December 2026, aiming to make improvements that are comprehensive, well-rounded, and aligned with the Thai social context.
On 13 November 2026, Ms. Ploytale Laksameesangchan, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that the government, through the Department of Provincial Administration, Ministry of Interior, is in the process of revising the Gambling Act B.E. 2478, a law in effect for over 90 years. The revision aims to align with changing societal conditions and evolving forms of gambling, especially online gambling and diverse, complex electronic technologies. The old law has limitations in controlling and enforcing against organizers, gambling den owners, venue owners, supporters, supervisors, recruiters, and advertisers, as well as in asset forfeiture measures and penalties that may no longer fit current circumstances. Therefore, updating the law to be modern is necessary.
Ms. Ploytale said, The draft Gambling Act (No. ..) B.E. .... The draft law’s key improvement is to clarify gambling control criteria consistent with the risk levels of each activity type. Instead of listing gambling types in an annex, it proposes that the Minister issue regulations classifying gambling into three categories: (1) prohibited gambling, (2) gambling requiring a license, and (3) low-risk play, which only requires notification to relevant agencies. This approach aims to ensure supervision is appropriate to the nature and risk of each activity.
This drafting follows the Cabinet resolution dated 10 March 2026, which mandates that government agencies solicit stakeholder opinions both at the initial proposal stage on key principles or issues and again after the draft law is prepared, as part of the legislative process. The government invites citizens, business operators, academics, relevant agencies, and all stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft Gambling Act (No. ..) B.E. .... through the central legal system. The website www.law.go.th From 9 November to 9 December 2026 Or scan the QR Code through the Department of Provincial Administration’s public relations channels to submit comments and suggestions. These inputs will support comprehensive, well-rounded, and modern improvements to the draft law, enhancing effectiveness in preventing and suppressing gambling while protecting public interests and citizens’ rights and freedoms appropriately.