Poker just took a massive step forward in Thailand, and the timing couldn’t be better.
Just before the WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition kicks off in Bangkok, the Thai government has officially recognized poker as a sport, marking a landmark moment for the game in Southeast Asia.
The move gives the WPT Prime stop some serious momentum as it becomes the first international poker tournament hosted under the country’s new sports classification.
The decision was made on July 23, 2025, during a high-level government meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Suriyak Reungruangkit, with key figures from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Sports Authority of Thailand also present.
The meeting confirmed that under Thailand’s 2015 Sports Act, poker is now officially considered a mind sport, placing it alongside games like chess and bridge. That means poker is recognized for what it really is: a skill game built on strategy, probability, and decision-making, rather than chance.
It’s a huge step toward legitimizing poker in Thailand and clears the way for professionally run tournaments, industry development, and even player career pathways in the years ahead.
WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition: Nearby Tourist Attractions Guide
With poker now on the books as a recognized sport, the upcoming WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition (July 30 – August 5 at UOB LIVE in EMSPHERE Mall) is officially backed by the government. It’s now more than just another stop on the tour, it’s the launchpad for a new chapter in Thai poker.
The event is being held in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and will showcase the country’s new “sports & tourism” strategy, pushing to bring together competition, travel, and local culture.
For WPT, it’s a chance to make a real impact in a rapidly growing market.
WPT Prime Thailand Unveils Immersive Venue for Landmark Poker Exhibition
Alongside the tournament, WPT Prime Thailand is rolling out a new Professional Training Program aimed at developing local talent. Participants will be trained and certified by international tournament directors, with a focus on dealing, operations, and event management.
It’s designed to fill the talent gap and create a self-sustaining poker ecosystem in Thailand, one that can support everything from grassroots games to major international festivals.
WPT Launches First Dealer Certification Program in Thailand
More than 2,000 players from around the world are expected to attend WPT Prime Thailand, and that kind of turnout brings big benefits:
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