Singapore government mulls over measures against online gambling

Global gambling industry to grow 9% yearly.

According to Second Minister for Home Affairs S Iswaran, the Government is studying measures that can be taken against online gambling. It also studies rules to restrict access to and patronage of gambling platforms.

Here are excerpts of Minister S Iswaran's speech at the Casino Regulatory Authority's workplan seminar:

The global online gambling industry, estimated at US$400bn in 2011, is expected to grow at an annual rate of 9%, with the Asian market representing a significant growth opportunity.

Online gambling is a new and potentially more addictive form of gambling, with greater access to the young and vulnerable. These risks will likely be magnified as the technology supporting online gambling further evolves.

In Singapore, there are concerns within the community over the social risks associated with this highly accessible form of gambling. The government shares these concerns.

We remain resolute in our commitment to especially protect minors and vulnerable groups in our society from the harms of gambling, be it terrestrial or virtual.

Therefore, the Government is studying measures that can be taken against online gambling, and to restrict access to, and patronage of, online gambling platforms.

We recognise that there are practical challenges to this effort, not least because technological change will render complete eradication difficult. Our officials are working with industry experts to study the issues and learn from other jurisdictions, in order to formulate a strategy that is effective, relevant and sustainable. The study should be concluded by the end of the year.