91 Years of Restrictions – Sports Director Challenges Snooker Gambling Law Opposition, Calls for Unlocking
Thai snooker officials are pushing to remove a 91-year-old gambling restriction that they say prevents the sport's development, arguing the law incorrectly ties snooker to gambling and hampers youth training and international competitivenes
Sunthon Charumant, president of the Thai Billiard Sports Association, presided over the 2025 annual general meeting at Hokitchen restaurant on Rama III Road on April 30. He disclosed that discussions centered on procedures for electing a new association president, as his term concludes in September. He expressed willingness to support qualified candidates with sufficient financial resources and time to develop snooker in Thailand, and indicated he would continue serving another term if member clubs maintain their confidence in him.
Regarding the push to remove snooker from the Gambling Act Category B, Deputy Director Vichai Sangkrapai of the Thai Billiard Sports Association revealed that the snooker association has submitted documents to parliament and the legislative branch, explaining that this law has existed unchanged since 1935—totaling 91 years—making snooker development extremely difficult. He contrasted this with China, which provides full governmental support and has produced athletes who bring national prestige.
"We've tied this sport to gambling ourselves, which is incorrect," he stated. "Gambling can happen anywhere—that's the Interior Ministry's authority. We've been pushing for understanding with members of parliament and senators. We plan to meet with Sports and Tourism Minister Surasak Ponthutthisombut to secure support for this initiative."
"The reason it won't pass is because critics worry it might become gambling or harm children. Don't be hypocritical—nowadays if people want to gamble, they go online anyway. Those opposing this shouldn't be obstinate. We must face reality. The world has developed; standing still like this won't help. It depends on the proposal. If the Interior Ministry agrees, if parliament agrees, we must look at China's example. Our children are still locked out of many sports. We're not trying to let children gamble—we need to separate these things properly. If we don't unlock it, how will kids train? Will parents just buy tables? How will the sport grow? Children need free access to this sport."
