PUBLISHED: 6 Apr 2025 at 04: 04
NEWSPAPER SECTION: News
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has defended the Entertainment Complex Bill, set for political discussion on April 9, as a vital financial measure amid rising US taxes on Thai products.
While criticism continues inside and outside congress, Mr Phumtham insisted the president’s fate should remain decided through political processes– no protests.
The costs, which includes casino activities within an integrated leisure complex, aims to generate substantial revenue and counter the 36 % US tax hike on Thai products– much higher than Singapore’s 10 %, he said.
Mr Phumtham argued the measure would raise Thailand’s economic endurance and dismissed concerns that it promotes gambling habit. He said tight passage rules, including era and income restrictions, may help alleviate risk.
” This isn’t about encouraging wagering– it’s about monetary survival”, he said.
He urged reviewers to meet the political debate and cited findings from the president’s virtual public hearing held between Feb 28 and March 14, in which more than 70, 000 persons participated, with around 80 % supporting the bill.
While acknowledging the right to rally, he warned for demonstrations should not be seen as representing the entire country.
He said people opinion usually differs from that of opposition parties and civic groups, stressing the need to honor the political process and allow parliament choose.
He added that the bill was introduce billions into the market.