Thailand and WPT Launch Strategic Poker Partnership Amid Gambling Reform Talks

The inaugural Texas Hold’em World Poker Tour is heading to Thailand after the government penned a partnership with the WPT.

Sorawong Tienthong, the Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, and Sorawong Thienthong, the Director of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), announced a strategic collaboration with the World Poker Tour (WPT) and Thailand RF Tourism and Sports Competition Club Co., Ltd. 

How WPT Prime Thailand Could Shape the Local Poker Scene

The WPT announcement noted that “the WPT Prime Thailand would not be a one-time event, but a strategic move to establish Thailand as a global center for mind sports.”

The WPT explained that plans are underway to host the tournament seasonally. The collaboration will start with a single event per season and could scale to 3-4 events annually.

This is a significant move for Thailand, reflecting the country’s efforts to adopt a new, pro-gambling stance and move forward with casino legalization.

Casino Legislation Still in Limbo Amid Poker Expansion

The casino-entertainment complex bill is pending discussion after being postponed this session. The next session will begin on July 2. 

Industry analysts suggest that parliament is unlikely to pass the bill, given the vocal opposition from within the Bhunjaithai Party—the second largest political party in the government coalition. Hopes remain that the party’s Secretary-General, Chaichanok Chidchob, ’s opposition to the bill does not reflect the party’s stance. 

Keta Ozolina, Vice President of WPT—Tour and Business Development, emphasized the global recognition of Texas Hold’em and its potential for boosting tourism within the region. Ozolina stated: “The economic impact of the World Poker Tour is proven globally, and Thailand is the perfect place to bring this iconic tournament.” 

To achieve this, astute legislation and a competitive tax rate will be vital in tackling illegal gambling and stopping its growth, while directing players toward legal, licensed providers.

Thailand is also located in an increasingly competitive gaming environment. Southeast Asia has seen several regions embrace the licensed gambling industry. Singapore and Macau are among the strongest in this region’s casino sector.

Qualifying Texas Hold’em as a sports activity is a significant step in the right direction. The Thai government did not stop there, as an interdepartmental task force has been established to support the event.

 As part of the collaboration, WPT will bring its global expertise in poker to the country through training locals and developing talent to meet the sector’s growing demand.

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 The inaugural Texas Hold’em World Poker Tour is heading to Thailand after the government penned a partnership with the WPT. Sorawong Tienthong, the Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, and Sorawong Thienthong, the Director of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), announced a strategic collaboration with the World Poker Tour (WPT) and Thailand
The post Thailand and WPT Launch Strategic Poker Partnership Amid Gambling Reform Talks appeared first on CasinoBeats.