The Problems of Legality of Blind Boxes under the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935)

Abstract

Blind boxes—surprise packages containing a variety of goods—have become a popular trend in Thailand. However, their legal status remains uncertain. This article explores this ambiguity by examining the definition and current state of the blind box industry in Thailand. The analysis then transcends national borders, providing a comparative overview of foreign regulations in Belgium, Japan, and China. This international perspective sheds light on different approaches to regulating similar practices. For Thailand, the article examines the potential application of existing gambling laws, particularly the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935), to regulate blind boxes. The lack of specific regulations for blind boxes in Thailand is highlighted, alongside the possibility of using existing legal frameworks, including licensing, to manage them. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for further clarity in the legal landscape surrounding blind boxes in Thailand, particularly the potential to utilize existing control measures outlined under the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935).