The Myanmar government has introduced a new Gambling Bill, 2018, that seeks to ašmend the existing gambling law, to the to Pyithu Hluttaw (Lower House of Parliament) this week.
The new Bill, introduced in the legislature by the Public Affairs Manašgement Committeeā seeks to amend the countryās 1986 Gambling Act and pave way for allowing regulated casinos in the country.
U Aung Hlaing Win, a Myanmerese lawmaker told local media that the proposed legislation in the country but locals would be banned for accessing or playing in the casinoź¦s. The proposal includes allowing casinos near border areas of Myanmar to allow attract tourists ą¹from countries like China and Thailand.
Further, casinos wą¦ill not be allowed tourism destinations steeped in culture and heritage, as per the proposal. Win added that the proposed law will not only allow a new sector to flourish but will also draw foreign currency.
The beleaguered conflict ravaged nation is currently facing a heavy fiscal deficit of over US$3.23 billion and is in dą¶£ire need of foreign exchange.
Currentlšy, most forms of gambling are banned in the country. However, some casinos are operating in hotel resorts in the country under permission granted by the tourism ministry, although it is š°understood that the .