Singapore lawmaker calls for hike in casino entry levy

A senior Singapore lawmaker has called for an increase in the casino entry levy imposed on Singapore citizens and permanent residents of the republic.
The lawmaker, Denise Phua Lay Peng, also called for the introduction of an “opt-in” system, whereby only Singaporeans who formally register an interest in gambling at the two casino resorts would be cleared to do so, according to local media.
The comments came amid this week's debate in parliament to outlaw online gambling. There were few details on the amount of any suggested levy.
The entry levy for Singaporeans has been steady since the two integrated resorts – Resorts World Sentosa, operated by Genting Singapore, and Marina Bay Sands, run by Las Vegas Sands Corp, opened their doors in early 2010. The entry fee is currently S$100 ($79) per 24-hour period, or SGD2,000 for a one-year pass.
At the same time, the government has introduced incremental changes to those rules governing how casinos can market their services to local players.
The policy appears directed at expanding tax revenue and spending by inbound tourists.
Over a series of policy measures the government has increased controls and added limits to the activities of the casinos, including the use of running free shuttle buses from areas of public housing.