A group of 12 national reform councillors have proposed legalising casinos, saying income from the associated sin tax would boost state coffers and finance development projects.
Representing the group, Anan Vacharothai told a press conference at parliament on Monday that there were 22 casinos around the country and over 80% of the gamblers there were Thai.
Legalising casinos would therefore stem the outflows and bring in new income as tourist arrivals surge, he said.
Maj Anan also said it would also create jobs and, if managed correctly, the projects could be successful as evidenced in many countries.
He considered Pattaya City a suitable location for them.
Kriengkrai Phumlaojaeng, another member, said the sin tax income from legalising casinos could help finance development projects beneficial to the public, particularly the poor.
He also said local casinos could welcome mainly foreigners and well-to-do Thais.
His group will propose the idea to the National Reform Council and hopes a committee will be formed to study the pros and cons.