22-3-2024 (SINGAPORE) The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) reaffirmed Singapore’s status as an “attractive destination” for leisure and business travellers from China, in response to queries regarding a circular issued by China’s embassy in Singapore cautioning its citizens against gambling.
The circular, issued on March 18, urged Chinese citizens in Singapore to refrain from gambling, highlighting that cross-border gambling violates Chinese laws and may be associated with other criminal activities such as smuggling and money laundering.
Responding to media inquiries, Andrew Phua, the Greater China executive director of STB, acknowledged the embassy’s statement and affirmed Singapore’s respect for its concerns. Phua emphasized that Singapore remains a trusted and vibrant destination, drawing Chinese travellers for various purposes.
“Beyond being recognised as a family-friendly, bilingual, and safe destination, Singapore’s diverse range of tourism offerings, including a plethora of attractions and a vibrant events calendar, makes it an appealing choice for Chinese visitors,” Phua stated.
Highlighting the significance of the mutual visa exemption agreement between Singapore and China, Phua noted that the 30-day visa-free entry further enhances Singapore’s allure as a tourist destination, stimulating arrivals and spending in Singapore’s tourism sector.
Implemented on February 9, the agreement permits citizens of both countries to visit each other without a visa for up to 30 days. STB statistics revealed that Singapore welcomed over 327,000 visitors from China in February 2024, representing 96% of 2019’s figures. China stood as the largest source market for visitors to Singapore during this period.
Phua outlined STB’s commitment to showcasing Singapore’s hidden gems to Chinese visitors through various branding and public relations initiatives. Despite the advisory on gambling, Singapore houses two integrated resorts with casinos, Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa. However, both establishments declined to comment when contacted.
In December 2023, the Gambling Regulatory Authority fined Resorts World Sentosa $2.25 million for its failure to conduct due diligence checks on deposits into patrons’ accounts.
