Thailand Bans Locals from Crossing into Cambodia, Work at Gambling Venues

Another geopolitical shot was fired earlier this week when Thailand said that it will not allow its citizens to cross into neighboring Cambodia and work at local entertainment venues, gambling dens, and casinos, amid escalating tensions between the countries.

The measure specifically targets Poipet, where the bulk of gambling establishments operated in Cambodia are based.

Geopolitical Rivalries Sap Poipet’s Gambling-Dependent Economy

The order was handed down by the Royal Thai Army at 8 am local time on Tuesday, with the army claiming that there were legitimate concerns about Thai citizens’ safety, which necessitated stricter measures.

The latest tit for diplomatic tat comes after Cambodia decided to ban import of fresh fruit and vegetable from Thailand, with seemingly little consideration for local economies and border regions which are entwined economically and socially.

Tensions have been mounting since May 28, when the two nations’ armies stirred a flare-up which left one Cambodian soldier dead. Cambodia has responded firmly, but so has Thailand.

Thailand is aware that Cambodia has relied heavily on its people to staff many of its gambling ventures alongside the border, which will now be impossible. A knock-on effect was felt by Donaco International Limited, which operates Star Vegas, one of the very largest, which saw a 62% drop in headcount and a 42% drop in occupancy for the hotel rooms.

While the armies are looking for a way to freeze the conflict, ordinary people on both sides of the border have been confused and hurt by the latest escalation.