Thai authorities have previously expressed optimism about the future of casino gaming, saying that they could potentially rival Singapore and open the first Thai resort before MGM Osaka goes live.

Japan, on the other hand, is planning to collect a tax of approximately $40 from locals wishing to enter the upcoming MGM Osaka casino. Bowers didn’t disagree with this approach but warned that Thailand should make sure that the entry fee doesn’t dissuade players from gambling.

Global gaming giant MGM Resorts has watched the efforts to regulate casinos in Thailand from the front seats, hoping to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the country. As these efforts progressed, the company encouraged local authorities to adopt a competitive casino tax.

Bowers also addressed the potential safer gambling benefits of allowing locals to play, arguing that access to a legal alternative would shield some consumers from the dangers of unlicensed operators. At the same time, casino taxes would fuel a variety of government initiatives, including education and problem gambling support.

Ed Bowers, the company’s president of global development spoke with the Post, saying that Thailand should keep nearby casino regions in mind when determining its casino tax. He pointed out that Macau and Japan boast tax rates of 40% and 30%, respectively, while Singapore has an average GGR tax of 17%.

MGM has previously expressed confidence that Thailand could become a top market. Now, the company, which is prepared to invest between $3 billion and $5 billion in a casino in Bangkok, has warned that a sensible tax rate would be a must.