In brief
On 22 October 2025, the Ministry of Interior (MOI) issued Order No. 3179/2568 regarding gambling permit applications. This order revokes MOI Order No. 2253/2568, dated 30 July 2025, which had previously lifted the longstanding prohibition on the authorization of poker games dating back to 1958. Please see our previous newsletter on MOI Order No. 2253/2568 for more details.
The new order reflects a significant policy reversal, following the Policy Statement of the Cabinet delivered to Parliament by the newly elected Prime Minister Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, emphasizing commitment to the serious suppression of all forms of illegal gambling. This development marks a policy shift during the transition to the new administration, replacing the earlier stance under the previous government, which had allowed poker games to be permitted.
In more detail
Background
Under the Gambling Act, B.E. 2478 (1935), poker is classified as gambling that requires prior approval from the MOI if it is to be played. Even though, in theory, poker could be permitted, MOI Order No. 490/2501 lays down a policy that strictly prohibits the authorization of poker. This means that, in practice, poker is strictly prohibited.
Earlier this year, the board of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) passed a resolution recognizing poker as a sport eligible for registration with the SAT and, importantly, the MOI, under the previous government, issued Order No. 2253/2568, which revoked the longstanding policy that strictly prohibited the authorization of poker outlined in MOI Order No. 490/2501, which was in effect since 1958. As a result of the revocation, the relevant authorities could exercise discretion to grant permission for poker-related activities, provided that such permission is granted only in the context of tournaments organized as sporting events to promote tourism, paving the way for the legitimate organization of poker tournaments in Thailand.
Recent update
However, during the transition to the new government, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul delivered the Cabinet's policy statement to Parliament, outlining the commitment to the serious suppression of all forms of illegal gambling, stating that the new government does not support the legalization of gambling businesses. This includes forms of gambling presented in the form of sports, such as poker.
Accordingly, to align with the stated policy, the Prime Minister, in his capacity as Minister of Interior, signed MOI Order No. 3179/2568, revoking MOI Order No. 2253/2568, dated 30 July 2025, and explicitly prohibits the authorization of poker based on the authority granted under the Gambling Act, B.E. 2478 (1935). While the SAT's board resolution to classify poker as a sport remains unchanged at this stage, the MOI's latest order effectively blocks the legal pathway for organizing poker tournaments or related activities in Thailand.
We can assist
Our team is actively monitoring this evolving regulatory landscape. If you have questions about how this change may affect your business or planned activities, or if you require guidance on compliance with Thailand's gambling laws, please don't hesitate to contact us.
* * * * *
Related content: Thailand: Poker recognized as a legitimate sport in Thailand
Soravit Vongbunsin and Chakrit Tatong, Associates, have contributed to this legal update.