Galaxy Entertainment Group, which operates numerous gaming facilities in Chinese cities, is exploring the possibility of pouring billions into a new casino and entertainment complex in Bangkok.
Kevin Clayton, chief brand officer at Galaxy Resorts Thailand, believes that Thailand’s steady tourism recovery post-pandemic will continue if growth remains organic.
He noted that government plans, such as introducing Formula One and constructing an entertainment complex, aim to boost tourism.
These initiatives could increase foreign visits from 36 million to 50 million, elevate targeted revenue from 3 trillion baht to 5 trillion baht, and lift tourism’s GDP contribution from 20% to 30%.
“To generate this level of growth, the country needs a sizeable level of investment in key attractions to attract both frequent travelers and first-time visitors. We’re interested in Bangkok, which deserves a truly iconic complex,” said Mr. Clayton.
“The country needs a sizeable level of investment in key attractions to attract both frequent travelers and first-time visitors. We’re interested in Bangkok, which deserves a truly iconic complex,” remarked Kevin Clayton, chief brand officer at Galaxy Resorts Thailand.
Mr. Clayton shared that only 15% of tourists staying at hotels in Thailand remain for more than two nights at the same property, including those in Bangkok.
Due to strong opposition to the entertainment complex bill, which caused the cabinet to postpone discussions last week, Mr. Clayton emphasized that social concerns need to be properly addressed for gambling to be legalized.
“The propensity for gambling in Thailand is relatively high, with 99% of people acquainted with someone who gambles, while 60% have participated in gambling themselves, and 30% have engaged in online gambling, despite it being unregulated and illegal,” he said.
Clayton argued that keeping these activities underground has hindered solving certain social issues due to the absence of intervention and support, which could be provided by the entertainment complex sector.
“The entertainment complex industry is heavily regulated. You probably won’t find a more regulated environment than this, whether in terms of customer acquisition, responsible gambling, or anti-money laundering,” he said.
Mr. Clayton mentioned that the group aims to not only invest billions in this project but also to collaborate with regulatory bodies to prevent money laundering and effectively address gambling issues.
He expressed the group’s intention to establish a joint effort to oversee an intervention and education program.
