Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has announced a public consultation to review proposed amendments to its Remote Games of Chance (RGOC) Type 2 licence. These changes could enable operators to offer in-game prize marketplaces. This marks a significant shift in regulation.
Industry Changes Prompt Regulatory Review
Since the Gambling Control Act took effect on 1 August 2022, player behavior and game mechanics have evolved. Increasingly, players trade in-game items such as stickers, graffiti, weapons, and skins through third-party platforms. While these actions are currently prohibited under the Type 2 RGOC licence, the GRA notes that they do not pose law-and-order or social risks.
Proposed Changes to Allow Marketplace Creation
The GRA’s proposed update to Paragraph 3(b)(iv) would allow Type 2 RGOC licensees to offer in-game marketplaces where players can trade prizes for money or equivalents. However, operators must not purchase items back from players. This rule aims to prevent “gambling inducement”. Otherwise, it would create a guaranteed way to convert prizes into cash, blurring the line between gaming and gambling.
Under current rules, prizes may only be exchanged for other in-game items within the same game or related games. With the amendment, players would gain more flexibility, while operators must still maintain safeguards.
Public Feedback Open Until 20 August
The GRA has opened the consultation to gather feedback from stakeholders and the public. The submission deadline is set for 20 August. If approved, the change could modernize how interactive game operators engage with their users. This would align with global trends while preserving social responsibility.
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