The Pheu Thai Party has criticised the government’s decision to reclassify poker as gambling, saying it contradicts global trends and undermines Thailand’s potential to boost tourism and economic growth.
Sorawong Thienthong, acting party secretary-general and former tourism minister, said the move to revoke poker’s status as a recognised sport appeared politically driven rather than guided by national interest.
“The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) has recognised poker as a ‘mind sport’ since 2024, as it involves analytical thinking, strategy and mental endurance,” he said.
“In July this year, the Sports Authority of Thailand endorsed poker and flag football as official sports with clear restrictions against gambling at competitions. So, the government can’t use gambling as an excuse.”
The criticism followed Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s order to ban poker and other card-based “sports” events nationwide, reversing a policy introduced under the previous administration.
The premier signed Interior Ministry Order No. 3179/2568, revoking authorisation for gambling activities involving poker or similar games in line with the government’s stance against promoting gambling in any form.
Sorawong said poker is widely recognised as a legitimate sport, with more than 50 member federations, 450,000 professional players, and around 100 million recreational players worldwide.
He added that poker could serve as a tool for promoting tourism, suggesting Thailand could host an annual Poker Tour Festival to attract high-spending visitors, supported by the country’s extensive hotel infrastructure, convention centres, and international airports.
According to the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), participants in such events typically spend around 20,000 baht per day during a 7–14-day stay. With 10,000 players, the event could generate more than 1.4 billion baht in annual revenue, Sorawong said.
He also criticised the government for failing to address the negative impact of its cannabis policy, led by the Bhumjaithai Party, noting that a proper Certificate of Analysis system has yet to be implemented to ensure product safety.
In early August, acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai had legalised poker games for money under controlled conditions to pave the way for international tournaments in Thailand.
Mr. Phumtham, who also served as interior minister, described the matter as “sensitive and complex,” requiring careful legal review.
