Thailand expects SEA Games revenue to exceed forecasts by 2.5 times

Speaking to Siam Sport, Gongsak confirmed that the Games have already generated over 12 billion baht in value. He expressed confidence that the final tally would reach 14 billion baht, marking the highest economic return for any major sporting event hosted by the country.

This figure is generated from 50 sports and the participation of over 12,000 athletes and officials. The event attracted nearly 400,000 spectators, including athletes' families, international fans and tourists. In addition, the Games created between 12,000 and 14,000 jobs across the construction, service, transportation and sports sectors.

Approximately 10,000 spectators filled the Huamark Arena in Bangkok during Thailand's 3-2 victory over Vietnam in the women's volleyball final of the 33rd SEA Games on Dec. 15, 2025. Photo by TVA

The revenue number exceeds the expectations of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports (MOTS) by 2.5 times. It is more than six times the event's operating budget of 2.055 billion baht ($63.5 million), which was approved by the cabinet in June for both the SEA Games and the upcoming Para Games.

The $63.5 million budget of Thailand is roughly half of the $131 million spent by Cambodia for the 2023 Games. This difference is largely due to Thailand's strategy of utilizing existing facilities, whereas Cambodia invested heavily in new infrastructure. Vietnam spent approximately $44 million hosting the 31st SEA Games, but did not organize the Para Games. Neither Vietnam nor Cambodia disclosed specific revenue from the Games.

This is still not the largest budget Thailand has allocated to a major sporting event. The 1998 Asian Games had a budget of 2.372 billion baht, followed by the 2007 University Games (1.843 billion baht), the 2007 SEA Games and the 2008 Para Games (1.463 billion baht).

Despite the financial success, the 33rd SEA Games were remembered for controversies. The event faced organizational delays stemming from changes in the Thai government, while escalating border tensions led Cambodia to withdraw all athletes immediately after the opening ceremony.

Additionally, severe flooding prevented Songkhla Province from hosting events as planned. The organizing committee also faced backlash over protocol errors involving flags and maps, as well as widespread criticism regarding officiating standards and alleged bias.

The 33rd SEA Games officially concluded on Dec. 20. After 10 days of competition, Thailand topped the medal table with a haul of 233 gold medals, breaking the previous record of 205 set by Vietnam at home in 2022. The hosts also secured 154 silver and 112 bronze medals.