Thailand Reinstates Poker Ban as Prime Minister Anutin Tightens Gambling Rules

Thailand has officially reinstated its ban on poker after Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed a new decree on 22 October 2025, reversing a three-month-old decision that had classified the game as a regulated sport.

The new directive cancels the order issued in July 2025 by former acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who had approved controlled poker tournaments under the supervision of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT). The reversal marks a sharp policy U-turn by the new government and underscores its intent to strengthen control over all forms of gambling. 

According to the Office of the Prime Minister, the decision aligns with the administration’s policy declaration of 29 September 2025, which pledged stricter enforcement of anti-gambling laws and tighter oversight of gaming-related activities. The directive reaffirms that poker shall again be treated under the 1958 Gambling Act, which prohibits betting and gaming events for monetary gain.

Government spokesman Wiroj Sukcharoen confirmed that the reinstated ban applies to all poker events, including previously authorised tournaments and any domestic or international leagues. Existing permissions granted to organisers are now void.
“The prime minister believes that legalising poker sends the wrong message about gambling and contradicts Thailand’s social and moral values,” the statement read.

The abrupt reversal has drawn mixed reactions from the business community. The Thai Poker Federation called the decision “a major setback” for the country’s efforts to develop international tourism and skill-based gaming. Industry observers warn that the move could push the activity back underground, strengthening illegal networks.

The government, however, insists that the focus must remain on law enforcement and social protection. It is also preparing new inter-agency guidelines to identify and penalise illegal gambling events, particularly online poker platforms targeting Thai players.

Analysts view this as part of a broader tightening trend: in the past three months, Thailand has shelved its Entertainment Complex Bill, increased penalties for online gambling, and ordered new inspections of provincial gaming activities.

With the October 22 decree now in effect, Thailand’s short-lived poker liberalisation — which lasted just 96 days — has officially come to an end.