Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) reported a continued decline in casino participation among citizens and permanent residents in 2024. Only 2.8 percent—around 94,000 adults—visited casinos, down from 99,000 the previous year.
The regulator’s annual report highlighted that the number of entry levies purchased by locals also fell. Notably, annual levy holders decreased from 7,100 to 6,700. This reflects the success of ongoing measures to curb problem gambling.
Strengthening oversight with technology
GRA Chairman Tan Tee How emphasized that the regulator is “embracing new technologies, adapting data-driven approaches, and recalibrating strategies to address emerging challenges.”
He noted that Singapore’s compliance-first stance was reinforced earlier this year. This was when Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) received a shortened license tenure, underscoring the regulator’s resolve to maintain high operational standards across integrated resorts.
Data-driven regulation
Tan also revealed that the GRA has invested heavily in data analytics and visualization tools. These tools enhance regulatory “sensemaking” and allow trends to be detected more effectively.
“We’ve developed a model to predict casino visitorship trends. This enables efficient deployment of our resources,” he said.
“We’ve also engaged operators to collect and analyze data on new bet types. This helps us assess if strategies to divert illegal gambling to legal channels are working.”
Looking ahead, the GRA plans to integrate generative AI to “strengthen risk-based decision-making and automate compliance monitoring.” The aim is to apply AI “across all facets” of its operations.
Proactive policy and prevention
Singapore continues to take a proactive stance in addressing gambling-related risks before they escalate. Higher casino entry fees for locals and robust anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) frameworks have contributed to one of the lowest gambling addiction rates globally.
Tan reaffirmed the authority’s long-term mission:
“We will continue to build a shared purpose and remain dedicated to protecting the people of Singapore from gambling harms.”
