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Thai Interior Ministry Proposes Removing Snooker from Gambling Regulations

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Thai Interior Ministry Proposes Removing Snooker from Gambling Regulations

The Ministry of Interior is drafting a ministerial regulation to reclassify snooker, potentially removing it from the legal definition of gambling.

According to a report by Matichon Online on September 22, 2026, the Thai Ministry of Interior is currently working on an amendment to ministerial regulations regarding gambling. Polpee Suwanna-at, a representative associated with the initiative, indicated that the ministry aims to remove snooker from the list of activities classified as gambling under current Thai law.

This proposed change is intended to modernize the regulatory framework surrounding the sport. For residents and visitors, this shift could lead to a more normalized environment for snooker halls and clubs, potentially reducing the legal complexities that have historically surrounded the operation of these venues. If the amendment is successfully passed by the Cabinet, it is expected to be enforced immediately.

However, several details remain to be confirmed. The specific criteria for this reclassification and the exact timeline for the Cabinet's review have not yet been finalized. Interested parties should monitor official government announcements for the formal enactment of these changes, as the current legal status of snooker venues remains subject to existing gambling regulations until the new ministerial regulation is officially published and implemented.