Law
Snooker Remains Classified Under Thailand's Gambling Act
A recent report from Matichon Online highlights that snooker continues to be regulated under the Gambling Act, with claims that corruption prevents its reclassification.
According to a report published by Matichon Online on September 17, 2026, snooker in Thailand remains strictly categorized under the national Gambling Act. The report suggests that the sport is effectively 'trapped' within this legal framework, preventing it from being recognized purely as a professional sport.
Matichon Online alleges that the primary obstacle to reclassifying snooker is the persistence of 'suay'—a term referring to illicit payments or bribes—within the regulatory environment. The report argues that as long as these financial incentives exist, there is little motivation for authorities to move the sport out of the gambling category.
For residents and expatriates, this classification means that snooker halls and clubs must continue to operate under the specific licensing and oversight requirements dictated by gambling laws rather than standard sports regulations. This can impact the operational hours, age restrictions, and general environment of these venues.
It remains to be confirmed whether there are any active legislative proposals or official government initiatives aimed at amending the Gambling Act to specifically exclude snooker. As of now, the sport continues to face the same regulatory hurdles it has encountered for years, with no immediate change in its legal status expected.
