Melco Resorts Pursues Casino Opportunities and Partnerships in Thailand

Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd., a Macau-based casino operator, has embarked on an exciting new venture to explore Thailand’s entertainment and gaming sector. With the strong possibility of the Southeast Asian country legalizing integrated resorts (IRs), which will include casinos, the company has established an office in Bangkok to get ahead of the curve.

Leading the initiative, Melco Chairman and CEO Lawrence Ho raved that Thailand is a “generational opportunity” with a vibrant tourism scene and cultural riches to be captured. “Thailand’s exceptional hospitality and rich culture make it a premier destination,” Ho expressed.

Big Plans for Bangkok

Speaking at an event announcing Melco’s partnership with the Thailand Creative Content Agency (THACCA), Ho confirmed that the conglomerate intends to develop an entertainment complex in the heart of Bangkok. It currently awaits clarity from the Thai government on casino legislative intricacies and investment frameworks.

The company will also scout for more entertainment opportunities and partnerships in other dynamic hotspots like Phuket, renowned for its vibrancy and lavish entertainment hubs.

The Thai government is still in discussions to determine the number of licenses to issue for IRs, with reports indicating there will be five: two issued in Bangkok and the rest in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. Industry analysts estimate Thailand could generate about $9.1 billion in GGR once legalized, competing with premier markets like Singapore and Macau.

A Proven Track Record

Melco is a gambling titan that enjoys beaming success in other global regions, including Macau, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Cyprus. The company is renowned for its ability to draw in the masses in its upscale resorts. In 2024, the operator reported over 21 million visitors in its establishments, staying 30% longer than at rival destinations; they also spent three to four times more.

Ambitions Beyond Casino Gaming

As the gambling and tourism scene expects an upswing, Melco anticipates a prosperous year ahead beyond casino gaming limits. The company is partnered with THACCA for the Global Soft Power Talks to elevate Thailand’s creative and cultural sectors.

As a display of the operator’s commitment to innovation and luxury, the event will feature keynote addresses from the Who’s Who, including Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse.

National Soft Power Development Committee Chairperson Dr. Surapong Suebwonglee stated that these efforts align with the country’s plans to compete on a global scale: “Our partnership with Melco empowers us to amplify Thailand’s identity and cultural assets, ensuring our creative industries are recognized and celebrated worldwide.”