Accessibility and Infrastructure Challenges
Gaming industry expert Scott Feeney commented, “Traffic congestion in Bangkok is severe. The MRT and BTS systems are really the only effective means of getting around the city. Therefore, any selected site must be close to existing public transportation routes and should not rely on government-led infrastructure developments specifically for the project.”
This observation underscores a critical challenge for the successful development of entertainment complexes in Bangkok—the need to carefully integrate with existing mass transit systems and address the city’s chronic traffic issues.
Opportunities for Other Locations
While Bangkok remains the most sought-after location for investors, there is significant concern regarding the financial viability of projects in other areas, particularly in light of the minimum investment requirement of THB100 billion (approximately US$3 billion).
Industry stakeholders told IAG that achieving a satisfactory return on investment (ROI) would be nearly impossible in Chonburi, Chiang Mai, or Phuket if projects are required to meet such a high capital threshold.
However, Hard Rock International has expressed interest in investing in Phuket. Ed Tracy, the company’s Head of International Development, commented:
“I view Phuket as highly suitable for a regional-scale casino.”
He added that the company has already completed financial modelling and analysis for a potential project on the island.
The legislative review process is still underway, and investors and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting clarity on the specifics of licensing and site selection—factors that will be crucial in shaping the future of Thailand’s emerging gaming and entertainment industry.