Thailand's gambling framework is among the strictest in Southeast Asia. Under the Gambling Act B.E.2478 (1935), virtually all forms of wagering—including sports betting—are prohibited unless explicitly authorized by royal decree or ministerial regulation (1).
The only legal exceptions are state-sponsored activities, such as the national lottery and licensed horse racing, both overseen by the Ministry of Interior under the Gambling Act (1). Private sportsbooks covering football, boxing or other sports remain unauthorized and subject to penalty.
"It is prohibited to permit an organisation of, a participation or a gambling in games specified in List A annexed to this Act, or in similar games or any other harmful games which the responsible Minister has additionally prohibited by means of a Ministerial Regulation."
Despite these prohibitions, underground sports betting continues via informal networks and online platforms. In early 2025, Thailand’s cabinet approved a draft bill to legalize integrated casino resorts—and potentially regulated sports betting—to curb illegal markets and boost tourism (2).
Source:
https://report.dopa.go.th/laws/document/2/216.pdf
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thailands-big-casino-gamble-hangs-fine-print-regulations-2025-02-11/
Last updated: 22-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
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