Mostly Opposed in the US, Thailand Looks to Regulate, Promote Online Social Games
Thailand is preparing to regulate online social gaming through a new law aimed at promoting growth and ensuring industry accountability.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:After halting plans for a legal casino industry earlier this year, Thai lawmakers are advancing the Game Industry Act, a measure designed to formalize the regulation of online and social games. The bill, introduced in March 2025, is expected to establish a comprehensive framework for licensing, monitoring, and taxing the country's digital gaming ecosystem. If passed, the legislation could take effect before the end of 2025, marking a significant shift in Thailand's approach to gaming oversight.
Related: California Becomes Latest State to Consider Sweepstakes Casino BanThe Game Industry Act would create a dedicated regulatory authority responsible for overseeing online and interactive entertainment platforms. This new body would manage game registration, licensing, and compliance while coordinating with other government agencies to prevent illegal activity.
The law specifically aims to clarify the distinction between legal social gaming and gambling, ensuring that popular features such as points-based systems, in-game purchases, and lucky draws are not classified as wagering activities. Law enforcement would also gain authority to block or remove unregistered games and enforce safety standards for consumers.
Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, who heads the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), described the act as a tool for fostering fairness and responsible competition. He said that the legislation is not intended to restrict the market but rather to create a clear structure that protects consumers and encourages innovation.
The DEPA worked with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society and the Ministry of Culture in drafting the proposal, reflecting a cross-departmental effort to align gaming policy with Thailand's broader digital transformation agenda.
According to government estimates, Thailand's gaming industry is currently valued at around 40 billion baht (US$1.23 billion). Nuttapon has projected that the sector could more than double in the next decade, potentially reaching 100 billion baht as global competition increases.
He noted that gaming in Thailand has significant potential beyond entertainment, intersecting with fields such as education, technology, and esports. The government views the sector as an emerging economic driver capable of generating employment and attracting international investment.
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Despite this optimism for online gaming, the country's larger debate over casino legalization remains unresolved. Earlier in the year, Thailand's parliament halted progress on the Entertainment Complex Bill, which would have allowed the development of five integrated resorts featuring casino operations.
The measure had gained traction under former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who, along with her father and ex-leader Thaksin Shinawatra, advocated for regulated land-based and online gambling. Supporters argued that legal casinos could position Thailand among the world's top gaming markets, with potential annual gross gaming revenue reaching 308 trillion baht, rivaling Macau and Las Vegas.
Public resistance, however, has been strong, with many citizens and religious groups opposing casino legalization. The bill's progress was further derailed by political turmoil following Paetongtarn's handling of a border dispute with Cambodia and subsequent impeachment for ethical misconduct.
Her removal from office in August ended the legislative momentum behind casino legalization, and her successor, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has stated that casino reform will not be reconsidered under his administration.
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