Report claims private lobbying in Thailand’s poker legalisation
Thailand’s sudden decision to legalise poker tournaments has come under scrutiny following an investigation by local media, which linked the move directly to lobbying by a private company seeking to host international poker events in the country.
On 30 July 2025, Thailand’s Interior Ministry signed an order repealing a 1958 directive that banned poker contests. The order No. 2253/2568 classified poker as a sport, allowing regulated tournaments to be held legally. This change came just one day before the World Poker Tour (WPT) staged its first official demonstration event at a Bangkok shopping mall on 1 August 2025.
A report by Isra News claims that the policy shift followed a meeting earlier this year between officials from RF Club Co., Ltd., a representative of the World Poker Tour entertainment brand, and Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong. The company proposed hosting a Texas Hold’em poker demonstration event in Thailand, which appears to have triggered a swift government response.
Critics question timing of the move
The timing has raised questions in political circles. Opposition MP Korrawee Prissananantakul criticised the government for rushing the legalisation, suggesting it was intended to approve an unauthorised event retroactively. Organisers had initially stated the tournament would be postponed, but delayed it by only one day.
“It looks like there was external pressure behind this decision.”
~ Korrawee Prissananantakul, Bhumjaithai MP, Thailand
“The Interior Ministry, charged with fighting illegal gambling, should not make such sudden changes without clear public consultation,” Korrawee said.
Gambling in Thailand remains largely restrictive. While horse racing, the state lottery, and certain sports betting activities are legal, casino gaming remains banned. However, there is a thriving underground gambling market estimated to be worth up to $30 billion (around €27.3 billion) annually.
Law enforcement continues to target illegal poker gambling operations. Recent raids in Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya have resulted in the seizure of hundreds of millions of baht in illicit proceeds, involving both Thai nationals and foreigners.
The government claims that legalising poker tournaments will help boost tourism by attracting international events, and is justified because poker is recognised as a sport in many countries. Several Thai players have already achieved professional status abroad.
Yet critics warn the decision lacks clear safeguards to ensure poker is played strictly as a sport and not as a front for gambling. They caution that the legalisation risks unintentionally legitimising illegal gambling.
Plans to introduce casinos delayed
The policy change comes amid broader plans to introduce casino resorts in Thailand, which government officials hope will attract approximately $3 billion (about €2.73 billion) in investment. They estimate that casino tourism could increase foreign visitors by 5 to 10 percent annually and generate over $359 million (roughly €327 million) in yearly revenue.
However, the casino proposal faces opposition from some lawmakers who are concerned about the social problems gambling expansion could cause. Experts warn that without transparent regulation, strong enforcement, and public engagement, the hasty legalisation of poker tournaments risks creating loopholes that could be exploited by illegal gambling operators.
