Galaxy Entertainment Considers Bangkok for Casino Resort

Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd, a casino operator based in Macau, has shown interest in developing a casino resort in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. This interest was voiced by Kevin Clayton, who is the chief brand officer of Galaxy Resorts Thailand. His comments were featured in a report by the Bangkok Post on Friday.

Mr Clayton emphasized Thailand's efforts to draw more international tourists and increase tourism revenue. He pointed out that substantial investment in key attractions is crucial for achieving sustainable growth in the country's tourism sector. He stated, "To generate this level of growth the country needs a sizeable level of investment in key attractions to attract both frequent travellers and first-time visitors. We're interested in Bangkok, which deserves a truly iconic complex."

Regulatory Considerations and Local Opposition

Despite the potential benefits of such a project, Mr Clayton acknowledged that there is some local opposition to the Entertainment Complex Bill. This legislation would facilitate the establishment of legal casino resorts in Thailand. However, he argued that proper regulation could address social issues linked to illegal gambling. He noted, "The entertainment complex industry is heavily regulated. You probably won't find a more regulated environment than this, whether in terms of customer acquisition, responsible gambling, or anti-money laundering."

Last week, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra mentioned that the cabinet would take its time with the deliberation of the Entertainment Complex Bill. The government plans to consider the opinions and concerns of all stakeholders before making a decision.

Galaxy's Strategic Moves in Thailand

Francis Lui Yiu Tung, the chairman of Galaxy Entertainment, revealed last month that the company intends to send a team to Thailand to evaluate the market's potential for casino operations. He stated, "We are conducting studies at the moment" regarding the Thai market. He added, "In the meantime, we still feel very bullish" about the potential of a Thai casino industry.

Mr Clayton, who previously served as the chief marketing officer for Galaxy Entertainment, left the company in 2019. However, he returned in January of the previous year, taking up the role of chief brand officer. According to his LinkedIn page, his current responsibilities include working on brand, brand building, submission strategy, and bid documentation to secure an entertainment complex license in Bangkok for Galaxy Entertainment and its partners.

In February, GGRAsia reported that a licensing entity associated with Galaxy Entertainment had applied to the Macau government for several trademarks that include the words "Bangkok" or "Thailand."

Posted by Wizard
Mar 21 2025