Singapore Might Ban Online Poker SitesGovernment Wants To Have Control Over Such Gambling |
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Singapore is one of the world’s top brick-and-mortar casino markets — around $6 billion annually in gaming revenue — but it might not be opening itself up to Internet poker.
The state is looking at placing a ban on all forms of remote gambling, which would of course include Internet-based games, according to reporting from The Diplomat.
“Remote gambling gives us cause for concern [because] is ubiquitously and easily accessible through the Internet and mobile applications, especially by a younger and more tech-savvy generation,” a government official said at last week’s Symposium on Casino Regulations and Crime.
“The nature and design of the games, especially poker and casino-type games, lend themselves to repetitive play and addictive behavior.”
The ban would come in the form of blocking existing gambling websites and even perhaps prohibiting domestic casino operators from ever taking up the activity on their own.
Though, there is suggestion that the government could be OK with it under tight controls.
Estimates have the current remote gambling industry in Singapore at $375 million annually.
“From a law and order perspective, remote gambling operations can potentially become a source or conduit of funds for other illegal activities and syndicated crime,” the official added. “These operators are beyond our jurisdiction and they operate without restrictions or limitations on the types of games they can offer or the promotions and advertising they undertake.”
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