Singapore’s casino entry levy program has delivered nearly $1 billion to the government since its introduction in 2010, according to new figures revealed in parliament.
The city-state is home to two integrated resorts – Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa – where citizens and permanent residents must pay to access gaming floors. Last month, the government raised the daily entry fee from S$100 to S$150 (US$73–$110) and increased the annual levy from S$1,466 to S$2,200.
Manpower Minister Josephine Teo disclosed that the levies have generated about S$1.3 billion (US$954 million) in revenue over the past nine years, averaging roughly US$120 million annually. Foreign visitors, however, continue to enjoy free access. In 2018, the two casinos reported combined gross gaming revenue (GGR) of about US$4.4 billion.
Entry Levy Seen as Effective Safeguard
Despite the hefty price tag for locals—nearly US$1 billion in total fees—the government says the system is achieving its social objectives.
“The daily and annual entry levies deter casual and impulse gambling by locals and are part of a holistic suite of social safeguards,” Teo said, adding that local casino visitation dropped 50 percent between 2010 and 2018.
Teo also noted that annual pass holders tend to be high-income premium players, making the option convenient for those who gamble frequently. At the same time, casino-related crime has fallen significantly, from 299 cases in 2010 to 126 in 2018—a 58 percent decline.
Social and Family Development Minister Desmond Lee further reported that problem gamblers account for less than one percent of the population.
Industry Growth and Expansion
In exchange for extending their exclusive licenses through 2030, Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa have pledged over US$6.6 billion in upgrades and expansions.
Las Vegas Sands, owner of Marina Bay Sands, will invest US$3.3 billion in a new 1,000-suite luxury hotel tower and a world-class entertainment arena. Resorts World Sentosa will commit a similar amount toward two new theme parks and an expanded aquarium.
The two operators will also pay nearly US$1.7 billion for land needed to accommodate the projects, with proceeds funneled into the Tote Board to support social and community programs. As part of the deal, both properties will be allowed to enlarge their gaming floors—Marina Bay Sands by 1,000 additional positions and Resorts World by 800.
Explore the best online betting site Singapore with Octabet betting news. Start winning today! Register now!
