According to the Bangkok Post, Kevin Clayton, chief brand officer at Galaxy Resorts Thailand said there is interest from Galaxy. He pointed to steady post-pandemic tourism gains in the country as one of the reasons for the potential project.
Clayton also referenced several government initiatives that could drive further growth in the country, including potentially hosting a Formula 1 grand prix. It is hoped that such efforts could push foreign arrivals from 36 million to 50 million.
“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,” Clayton said. “We’re interested in Bangkok, which deserves a truly iconic complex.”
Appetite for Casino Gambling in Bangkok
Headquartered in Macau, Galaxy also owns several casinos in the Chinese gambling haven. It could now seek to extend its reach in the wider Asian market by opening a new property in Bangkok.
Clayton said while only 15% of people visiting Thailand stay more than two nights, this could be increased with the opening of a new casino complex. He added that current statistics suggest such a move would also be welcomed by locals, with demand for gambling high.
“The propensity for gambling in Thailand is relatively high,” he said. “Around 99% of people are acquainted with someone who gambles. Also, 60% participated in gambling themselves and 30% engaged in online gambling. This is despite it being unregulated and illegal.
On this latter point, he said allowing regulated gambling would be safer and offer more protection to those who participate. Clayton added Galaxy wants to form a collective force to manage an intervention and education program.
“The entertainment complex industry is heavily regulated,” he said. “You probably won’t find a more regulated environment than this, whether in terms of customer acquisition, responsible gambling, or anti-money laundering.”
