Thailand to Introduce Landmark Law for Digital Gaming
Thailand is taking a groundbreaking step in ASEAN by moving to regulate digital games through a dedicated legal framework. The Promotion of the Game Industry Act aims to address games with gambling-like mechanics, enhance transparency and protect consumers all without stifling innovation. The initiative builds on insights from the Thailand iGaming Market Research Report, highlighting rapid digital growth and regulatory evolution.
Legal Foundation for Fair Play
The proposed law is designed to guide the gaming industry through clear rules rather than outright restrictions. It focuses on games featuring randomised rewards, including loot boxes, prize draws and point-redemption systems, which often blur the line between entertainment and gambling, particularly for younger audiences.
Assist. Prof. Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, CEO of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (Depa), explained that the objective is to “regulate the market fairly and sustainably.” The Act would empower the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau to suspend unregistered games and audit operators to ensure compliance with safety and transparency standards.
Three new committees ( Registration, Regulatory and Inspection and Game Industry Promotion ) would oversee licensing and supervision, forming the backbone of Thailand’s regulated gaming ecosystem.
Targeting Hidden Gambling in Digital Entertainment
Regulators aim to distinguish skill from chance before the sector grows further. Depa classifies random reward systems as “hidden gambling,” emphasizing the need for oversight to protect players and hold developers accountable.
The law also aligns with Thailand’s ambition to become a regional hub for digital entertainment. Its rollout coincides with the first Gamescom Asia in Bangkok in 2025, showcasing the country as a destination for ethical gaming and investment. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has publicly supported alternatives to casino legalisation, highlighting games as a path to economic growth.
Balancing Innovation with Responsibility
Depa has engaged with industry stakeholders, framing the legislation as a tool for sustainability rather than censorship. The Act aims to close legal loopholes around unregulated monetisation while preserving creative freedom for developers and publishers.
Regulated oversight is expected to boost the international reputation of Thai game studios, increase access to investment and create clearer compliance standards for both domestic and global operators.
Implications for Developers and Operators
If enacted, the law will mandate transparency in reward systems and real-money transactions, requiring stricter compliance standards for local and foreign publishers.
For domestic developers, the framework offers credibility and safer market access. Global operators may face tighter rules but gain a more predictable business environment. Thailand sees this regulatory balance as a competitive advantage, harmonizing innovation, consumer protection and economic growth.
Next Steps
Once reviewed and approved by the Cabinet, Thailand would become the first ASEAN nation with a dedicated gaming law, potentially setting a precedent for managing the overlap between gaming and gambling across the region.
