MACAU BUSINESS
Thai English-language newspaper quoted Lawrence Ho as saying that Melco is awaiting clarity on investment regulations from the government regarding entertainment complexes with casinos to better determine the size and budget for any projects. Thailand is in the process of approving legalised gambling focusing on integrated resorts, with a bill expected to be passed this year. Major players, including some of Macau’s ‘Big Six’ gaming concessionaires, are reportedly eyeing potential investments in the ‘Land of Smiles’.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION, REFERENDUM TAKEN OFF TABLE FOR THAILAND GAMING ACT Thailand has elected to run the gauntlet with formal government discussions for legalising gambling entertainment complexes over the next 50 days without seeking public consultation or a referendum, a senior Thai government official explained to Macau News Agency. Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced that the country’s cabinet had approved a draft law to legalise gambling and casinos.
A source from the Thai government told Macau Business, “We can expect to see this move in early March.” Thailand’s Council of State Secretary-General, Pakorn Nilprapunt, told reporters that the standing Ministry of Finance-sponsored draft Entertainment Complex Business Act bill announced last week does not need public input or a referendum, as parliament has approved it.
However, they will listen to the public if there are concerns it will have a heavy local public impact, he said. Thai Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai told local press that further delays of discussions would have economic costs, with analysts confident of little public opposition able to interfere in it moving forward.
G2E ASIA 2025 TO EXPAND EXHIBITION SPACE BY 50% G2E Asia will increase its exhibition floor space by 50% when the renowned industry showcase returns to The Venetian Macao from 7 to 9 May 2025, the organisers announced.
Reed Exhibitions revealed that G2E Asia and the Asian IR Expo will span approximately 30,000 square metres, featuring over 150 exhibiting companies. The organisers anticipate welcoming around 6,000 visitors to the event.
The G2E Asia Summit and Asian IR Expo will run concurrently, with the latter scheduled to take place at Galaxy International Convention Center from 6 to 8 May. The programme will include over 30 sessions led by more than 11 speakers, providing valuable insights into the region’s integrated resort and gaming industries.
Highlights of the summit’s first day include the “Asia Gaming Market Forum,” alongside networking opportunities such as the “G2E Asia 2025 President’s Reception,” the “Slot Networking Meetup,” and the prestigious “G2E Asia Awards Ceremony.” The Asian IR Summit will address the integration of non-gaming components and future technologies, reflecting the industry’s evolving landscape in sports and entertainment.
Despite the noticeable shift toward non-gaming elements, Vera Ng, Project Director at Reed Exhibitions, emphasised that gaming remains a core focus of the expo.
“The gaming portion has been growing, with increased space dedicated to it, driven by traditional gaming operators and innovative technology providers,” she stated. Ng also highlighted the rise of new technological solutions, such as smart table systems and integrated platforms, designed to meet the complex demands of both gaming and non-gaming sectors.
She expressed confidence in the expo’s long-term prospects, supported by strong backing from the Macau government and industry stakeholders. “We are committed to sustaining this event for the next ten to fifteen years,” she added.
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