MGM Resorts Global Development President, Ed Bowers, has underpinned his belief that the Thai Government should make a dramatic U-turn and enable locals to have access to integrated resorts as part of the new bill in Thailand.

Speaking to the Bangkok Post, he emphasised that the regulators in the country should look to close collaboration with operators to ensure the sector can thrive and have the most economic uplift possible. 

Bowers underpinned the handicaps that come with offering tourist-only engagement for operators looking to build a footprint in the market. 

The sentiment of Bowers comes at a positive time for the Government as it looks to mitigate criticism from some political corners over the potential risks of the legalisation of the casino sector in Thailand.

Providing assurances to stakeholders in Thailand, Bowers emphasised that integrated resorts are better equipped to detect and tackle money laundering and criminal activity.

MGM Resorts is one of a few operators to intensify its interest in the market as the legislation has progressed. 

It was reported that MGM Resorts joined Wynn Resorts in having a key part in productive discussions with the Thai Government over the infrastructure and investment in the market.

Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts, has previously cited Thailand as a key target for Wynn’s investment if the land-based casino market is established in the country.

Discussions will be viewed as imperative to the progression and evolution of the framework takes shape in the coming months and years. 

MGM has held a deep focus on Asia for a significant period of time, especially the Japanese market. This was brought to the fore when the operator confirmed the decision to waive its right to withdraw from the Japanese casino sector, meaning plans for a casino launch in the region by 2030 are set to be formalised. The debut casino project is set to launch in Osaka and is predicted to be worth around $10bn.

Source