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ARTICLE · 12 NOVEMBER 2026

Thailand’s Draft Gambling Act Sets Strict Rules For Online Gambling

Tilleke & Gibbins
Tilleke & Gibbins
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Tilleke & Gibbins

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On November 9, 2026, Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration opened a public hearing on a draft Gambling Act that would repeal the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935) and its amendments and replace them with a modern framework based on principles shared by the government earlier this year. The draft separates conventional gambling, online gambling, and lucky draws into distinct chapters.

ThailandCorporate/Commercial Law
Athistha (Nop) Chitranukroh
Athistha (Nop) Chitranukroh
Thammapas Chanpanich
Thammapas Chanpanich
Rada Lamsam
Rada Lamsam
Karnravee Jitvilai
Karnravee Jitvilai
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On November 9, 2026, Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration opened a public hearing on a draft Gambling Act that would repeal the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935) and its amendments and replace them with a modern framework based on principles shared by the government earlier this year. The draft separates conventional gambling, online gambling, and lucky draws into distinct chapters.

For online gambling, the draft introduces a technology-neutral definition of gambling, extraterritorial reach, website-blocking powers, duties for platforms and payment providers, a blanket advertising ban, and higher penalties targeting online offenses.

The draft act is relevant to:

  • Online gambling operators, including offshore operators targeting Thai users.

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