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Singapore censures Resorts World Sentosa for failing to enforce approved controls

A rare public censure exposes gaps in compliance at one of Singapore's two casinos. What does this mean for the city-state's high-stakes regulatory crackdown?

The image shows a fun nation amusement center in Singapore, with a group of people standing on the...
The image shows a fun nation amusement center in Singapore, with a group of people standing on the floor, some of them holding bags, and a signboard with text on it. The center is filled with colorful arcade machines and lights, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Singapore censures Resorts World Sentosa for failing to enforce approved controls

Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has issued a formal censure to Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) for failing to implement an approved internal control. The breach marks the only published enforcement action by the GRA in the current financial year 2026. It follows a series of penalties imposed on the country’s two major casino operators in the previous year.

The GRA found that RWS had not established a required internal control, despite prior approval. This violation of established protocols led to the censure, reinforcing Singapore’s strict oversight of its casino industry.

In Financial Year 2025, the GRA fined three gambling operators a total of SGD 275,000 (around $215,000). Among them, RWS was penalised SGD 75,000 (about $58,700) for failing to comply with advertising and promotional approvals. Marina Bay Sands also faced penalties during the same period. Singapore’s casino sector operates as a duopoly, with RWS and Marina Bay Sands as the only two integrated resorts. The country enforces rigorous regulations, covering gaming procedures, anti-money laundering measures, responsible gambling, and broader operational standards. Beyond casinos, Singapore is now drafting new rules for collectibles such as trading card packs. Authorities recognise that these products contain an element of chance, prompting potential regulatory adjustments.

The GRA’s latest censure highlights ongoing efforts to maintain strict compliance within Singapore’s tightly controlled gambling sector. With only two major casino operators, the enforcement actions signal a continued focus on adherence to regulatory requirements. Meanwhile, proposed rules for chance-based collectibles suggest an expansion of oversight beyond traditional gambling.

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