Singapore to Implement New Casino Entry Fee for Locals
Singapore is set to implement a new casino entry fee structure for its local citizens and permanent residents. This development comes as part of the proposed amendments to the Casino Control Act, which is poised to introduce stricter controls and oversight over casino operations.
The Marina Bay Sands hotel and casino in Singapore at night. (Source: Alamy)
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:One of the key features of this revision is the introduction of a Family Visit Limit, which, if breached, will be a crime that carries a possible fine of up to SGD10,000 (US$7,536) and a year in prison. This measure is designed to provide a safeguard against the potential negative impacts of gambling on families.
Related: Singapore Tightens Gambling Reporting Guidelines to Combat Money LaunderingThe authority to approve the main shareholders of Singapore's casino operators will be transferred to the Minister for Home Affairs (MHA). This change is expected to bring about a more centralized and stringent process for the evaluation and approval of major stakeholders in the casino industry.
The MHA, in conjunction with the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), has also announced a fixed casino entry levy for Singaporeans and permanent residents. The levy is set at SGD150 (US$114) per day and SGD3,000 (US$2,260) annually, marking a significant increase from the previous rates.
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The rationale behind the increased levies, which were initially raised on April 4, 2019, is to deter casual and impulse gambling among locals. The higher fees are intended to act as a financial disincentive for those who may consider gambling as a recreational activity, thereby reducing the incidence of gambling-related issues. The levies were slated to remain at the elevated rates for a period of five years, as part of the government's ongoing efforts to promote responsible gambling practices.
However, an oversight by the MHA led to an unintended reversion to the lower levy rates earlier this year. The 2019 order that stipulated the increased rates had expired on April 4, and without renewal, the levies automatically reverted to the previous amounts. This lapse was rectified on May 8 when the MHA reinstated the higher levy rates. Despite this, the levies continued to be collected at the increased rate during the period of April 4 to May 7, resulting in approximately SGD4.4 million (US$3.31 million) being collected above the legislated entry levy rates.
The reinstated levies are now in effect, and the proposed changes to the Casino Control Act are expected to further reinforce Singapore's stance on responsible gambling. With these measures, the government aims to balance the economic benefits derived from the casino industry with the well-being of its citizens, ensuring that the social impact of gambling is kept in check.
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