Last Updated on 8 October 2025 by Nicholas Lim
Singapore’s gambling landscape witnessed a notable shift in 2024. Local casino visits fell by approximately 5,000 compared to the previous year. This decline represents a continuing trend in the city-state’s efforts to promote responsible gaming. The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) released its annual report on October 2, revealing that about 94,000 citizens and permanent residents visited casinos in 2024, down from roughly 99,000 in 2023. Despite this decrease, problem gambling rates among Singapore residents have remained remarkably low and stable. The data suggests that Singapore’s comprehensive regulatory framework and social safeguards are working effectively. This article examines the latest statistics, explores the regulatory measures in place, and discusses what these trends mean for Singapore’s gaming industry.
Understanding Singapore’s Casino Visitor Decline
The Numbers Behind the Drop
The reduction in local casino visitors marks a significant milestone in Singapore’s responsible gambling initiatives. Casino visits by Singapore citizens and permanent residents fell by 5,000 from 2023 to 2024. This represents approximately a 5% decline in local patronage. The city-state operates two major integrated resorts: Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa. Both properties attract millions of tourists annually while serving a limited local market.
Entry Levy System Shows Effectiveness
Singapore’s entry levy system continues to demonstrate its effectiveness as a deterrent. The number of annual levy holders decreased from about 7,100 to about 6,700. Currently, locals must pay either a day levy of $150 or an annual levy of $3,000 to enter casino premises. This pricing structure serves a dual purpose. It generates revenue for social programs while discouraging casual gambling among residents. The decreasing number of levy purchases suggests that fewer Singaporeans are choosing to gamble regularly.
Problem Gambling Rates Remain Under Control
Latest Survey Findings
The most encouraging news from the GRA report concerns problem gambling rates. Problem gambling rates among residents remained “low and stable” at 1.1 percent, based on the findings of a 2023 survey conducted by the National Council on Problem Gambling. This statistic places Singapore among the countries with the lowest problem gambling rates globally. The stability of these rates over multiple years indicates that current safeguards are working effectively.
Comprehensive Protection Measures
Singapore has implemented multiple layers of protection for vulnerable individuals. The National Council on Problem Gambling operates helplines and webchat services. Family members can exclude relatives from gambling venues. The country maintains a national exclusion registry. Financial institutions work with regulators to identify at-risk individuals. These measures create a comprehensive safety net that catches problems early.
GRA’s Technology-Driven Regulatory Approach
Embracing Artificial Intelligence
The GRA is working closely with gambling operators to strengthen their compliance and risk culture while using artificial intelligence to help detect regulatory anomalies and at-risk behaviour. This forward-thinking approach positions Singapore as a leader in gambling regulation. AI systems can identify patterns that humans might miss. They monitor betting behaviors in real-time. The technology flags unusual activities for review. This proactive stance helps prevent problems before they escalate.
Data Analytics Revolution
GRA chairman Tan Tee How said the authority has expanded its use of data analytics and data visualisation tools, which enable the GRA “to better detect patterns, identify trends and anticipate potential regulatory concerns”. The regulator has developed sophisticated predictive models. These tools forecast casino visitorship trends. They analyze new bet types to determine effectiveness. The data-driven approach allows for more precise regulatory interventions.
Compliance-First Regulatory Philosophy
Setting High Standards
The GRA has demonstrated its willingness to use regulatory power when operators fall short. GRA chairman Tan Tee How referred to the authority’s November 2024 decision to renew Resorts World Sentosa’s casino licence for only two years instead of three, after its tourism performance was found unsatisfactory by the authorities. This shortened licence tenure sends a clear message. Operators must maintain high standards to continue operations. The regulator will not hesitate to act when performance lags.
Recent Enforcement Actions
The GRA took decisive action against several gambling venues in 2024. The GRA had suspended the gambling venue approval granted for gaming machine rooms located in six Safra locations from September 7 to 13 in 2024. The suspension affected venues in Jurong, Mount Faber, Punggol, Tampines, Toa Payoh, and Yishun. The suspension was imposed as the gambling venues had failed to “conduct requisite social safeguard checks”. These actions demonstrate zero tolerance for compliance failures.
Global Context and Best Practices
Learning from International Developments
Chairman Tan Tee How noted that recent developments in Australia stress the need for operators to ensure safer gaming environments, and where operators failed to do so, regulators have taken stronger action in response. Singapore actively monitors global gambling regulation trends. The country adapts best practices from other jurisdictions. This international perspective ensures regulations remain current and effective.
Balancing Tourism and Social Responsibility
Singapore faces a unique challenge. The integrated resorts must attract international tourists while protecting local residents. The current data suggests this balance is being maintained successfully. Tourist numbers remain strong at both properties. Local participation continues to decline gradually. This outcome aligns perfectly with the original vision for Singapore’s casinos.
The Human Element in Regulation
Beyond Systems and Technology
While acknowledging the importance of technology, Chairman Tan emphasized that “the human element remains paramount in maintaining regulatory effectiveness”. No amount of AI or data analytics can replace human judgment. Trained staff members interact with patrons daily. They identify concerning behaviors. They intervene when necessary. The combination of technology and human oversight creates a robust regulatory system.
Operator Responsibilities
The GRA’s approach aligns with evolving global standards, where operators are expected to prioritise the protection of vulnerable individuals. Casino operators must develop strong compliance cultures. They train staff extensively on responsible gaming. They implement self-exclusion programs. They monitor patron behavior for warning signs. This shared responsibility between regulator and operator strengthens overall effectiveness.
Future Outlook for Singapore’s Gaming Industry
Continuing Commitment to Protection
The GRA’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals shows no signs of weakening. Future regulations will likely become even more stringent. Technology will play an increasingly important role. Operators will face higher expectations. The focus remains squarely on preventing problem gambling rather than simply treating it.
Evolving Regulatory Framework
Chairman Tan stated that to ensure its regulatory framework remains effective, the GRA will continue to adopt new technologies, embrace data-driven approaches and recalibrate its regulatory strategies to address emerging challenges. This adaptive approach ensures Singapore stays ahead of potential problems. The regulator actively seeks innovative solutions. It experiments with new monitoring techniques. It shares knowledge with international counterparts.
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
For Residents
Singapore residents can feel confident that comprehensive protections exist. Problem gambling rates remain exceptionally low. Multiple support services are available for those who need help. The declining visitor numbers suggest that social safeguards are working as intended.
For Operators
Casino operators must maintain high standards across all operations. Compliance is not optional but essential. Investment in responsible gaming programs pays dividends. Cooperation with regulators creates a sustainable business environment.
For Policymakers
Singapore’s model demonstrates that casinos and social responsibility can coexist. Strong regulation does not prevent economic success. Technology enhances but does not replace human oversight. International cooperation improves regulatory effectiveness.
Conclusion
Singapore’s gambling sector continues to demonstrate that economic development and social protection are not mutually exclusive goals. The 5% decline in local casino visits, combined with stable problem gambling rates at just 1.1%, proves the effectiveness of the city-state’s multi-layered approach. The Gambling Regulatory Authority’s embrace of artificial intelligence and data analytics positions Singapore at the forefront of modern gambling regulation. The regulator’s willingness to take enforcement action when necessary sends a strong message to operators. As the GRA continues to refine its strategies and adopt new technologies, Singapore serves as a model for other jurisdictions seeking to balance tourism revenue with social responsibility. The human element remains central to this success, ensuring that behind every statistic stands a commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and maintaining the highest regulatory standards.