Thailand clarifies new poker rules amid sports policy shift
Thailand’s government has clarified its position on poker following the reclassification of the game as a sport. Officials said that poker will remain tightly controlled and may only be played under specific conditions. The Bangkok Post reported that the Ministry of Tourism and Sports stated that poker is not being legalised as a gambling activity, but is instead being formally recognised as a mind sport subject to oversight by an authorised association.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said that the change, initiated by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), is part of a broader effort to support the country’s sports tourism ambitions. The SAT has already approved the sport classification of poker at board level, but official procedures—including the formation of a Poker Sports Association and demonstration events—are still underway.
Interior Minister and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai signed Interior Ministry Order No. 2253/2568 on 30 July, effectively rescinding the longstanding 1958 directive that banned poker outright. While this order allows poker to be played under controlled circumstances, the game remains under Category B of the Gambling Act, meaning it still requires government authorisation.
Controlled conditions for legal play
Officials emphasised that poker may only be played at sanctioned events organised through the yet-to-be-established Poker Sports Association. Until the association is operational and official regulations are in place, no casual or private poker games will be permitted. Events must be strictly non-betting in nature and conducted under the legal framework being developed.
Sorawong stated that the government is not seeking to promote or expand gambling in Thailand. Instead, it is treating poker similarly to how esports have been integrated into global sporting events, such as the Asian Games and the Olympics. Poker, he said, is already considered a sport internationally and will be managed as such domestically.
Events that involve betting or are held without proper approval will continue to be classified as illegal gambling under Thai law. The tourism minister added that public consultation is not required in this instance, as the classification is being handled through official sports governance channels, not as a change in gambling regulation.
Legal and regulatory history
The recent shift follows the SAT’s official recognition of poker as a sport on 23 July. The SAT cited poker’s global appeal and skill-based characteristics, such as strategic thinking and psychological insight, as the basis for its decision.
In preparation for poker’s new status, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports partnered with the WPT earlier this year to launch Thailand’s first professional poker dealer training programme. Held in Bangkok in May, the five-day course trained 100 individuals in tournament operations, technical skills, and dispute management. Graduates are now eligible to join the WPT’s dealer network, creating a foundation of local talent to support future events.
Gov’t denies links to gambling liberalisation
According to the Bangkok Post report, officials dismissed speculation that the poker policy is connected to wider proposals for a government-run entertainment complex or casino legislation. Sorawong reiterated that illegal gambling remains a criminal offence and that the current policy applies only to poker as a regulated sport.
He acknowledged concerns about gambling addiction and misuse of the new policy but insisted that legal controls and oversight would be enforced strictly. A committee is being formed to draft a permanent framework for poker tournaments, and all events will require government approval to ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Observers say Thailand’s decision may set a precedent for other skill-based card games, such as bridge, to seek official recognition.
