Thailand’s game industry act set for Cabinet review in February
The draft of the Game Industry Act is scheduled for Cabinet review next month following the conclusion of public hearings. The legislation is anticipated to be implemented by the end of 2025.
Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, President and Chief Executive of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), stated that the law aims to address the development of the computer game industry, valued at 40 billion baht annually.
Additionally, the bill seeks to establish Thailand as a gaming hub in Southeast Asia. The Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry tasked DEPA with drafting the law in collaboration with the Culture Ministry.
The proposed legislation is designed to encompass all aspects of the gaming business, including services across various devices and platforms. Nuttapon indicated that the DES Ministry plans to present the draft to the Cabinet in February, with DEPA coordinating with relevant agencies to facilitate the law’s implementation. He emphasised that the agency must align the law with other drafts, such as the Interior Ministry’s regulation on online gambling.
“This law will not override other laws but will enhance existing ones and integrate with new legislation.”
DES Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong highlighted gaming as a creative industry vital to the global economy. He noted that the draft outlines a framework for developing the gaming industry in various dimensions, including supporting Thai gaming entrepreneurs, setting guidelines to prevent social impacts, and attracting investment from international entrepreneurs.
“The law establishes a foundation for the gaming industry to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness at the international level, expand job opportunities, and sustainably generate income for the economy.”
He added that the law is expected to encourage the registration of entrepreneurs, manufacturers, developers, distributors, and platform providers. The draft will set standards, criteria, and methods for regulating and controlling the gaming industry, enabling effective oversight and enforcement, Prasert noted.
Beyond economic growth, the draft focuses on balancing industry promotion with societal protection, particularly safeguarding young people, preventing mental impacts, and fostering a positive environment for the gaming industry, reported Bangkok Post.
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