Myanmar Set to Introduce Land-based Casinos for Foreigners Only

New Gambling Law set to legalize casinos for foreigners only in Myanmar (Image: CalvinAyre.com).

Myanmar is set to pass the latest gambling law that is designed to introduce land-based gaming establishments in three-star and higher hotels near border crossings, although it is important to note that such casinos will not be able to accept residents of the country.

German news agency Deutsche Presse-Agentur has been in touch with a member of the country’s Home Affairs Ministry, who has informed them of the newest version of the gambling law, which is expected to be passed following a discussion in the parliament.

While country’s decision to allow land-based casinos is the highlight of the new law, the document will also legalize certain types of state lotteries in an attempt to boost tax revenue.

Myanmar government seems to have finally realised advantages of creating new casinos and opening its doors to foreigners, despite the fact that only a month ago the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism chief Myo Win Nyunt suggested that the government would need to grant special licenses under the terms of the current gambling law before casinos were legalized.

Over 70 Percent Myanmar Residents Gamble Illegally

The new legislation is also expected to help the country battle a huge problem that is illegal gambling, with no less than 70 per cent of Myanmar’s adult population believed to have taken part in illegal gambling at least once.

One of the main objectives of the new gambling law is to seriously decrease the number of illegal gamblers in the country, while the establishment of new casinos near border crossings should seriously aid the 2013 tourism plan that was supposed to see the country attract 7 million tourists by 2020.

Myanmar government expect tourism to drive the country’s economy in years to come after the 2011 reforms already produced very good results, with some 2 million visitors welcomed in 2013 alone.

In case the government’s plans come to fruition, Myanmar will become another popular tourist destination in Asia, as foreigners are welcomed to visit the country and will soon have an opportunity to enjoy premium casino establishments as well.

But, seeing as how the country residents will not be able to gamble in such gaming venues, state lotteries will continue to offer the only betting opportunities to thrill seeking players until a new law is passed that will also regulate online gambling market.