Singapore government warns residents to leave gambling to tourists

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong spoke over the weekend of how Singapore residents should leave the gambling to tourists from other county's. The prime minister also spoke of how he saw Singapore residents inside the casinos, and that he hoped it was just to fulfill curiosity.

The likelihood that Hsien Loong will get his wish is a long shot. Singapore residents have for decades traveled to other nations in search of casinos, and the addition of two casino resorts at home will be much of a temptation for gamblers wishing to play the slots and card games. Still, the prime minister attempted to drive his point home.

"The prudent thing to do is to leave the punting games and slot machines to foreign tourists," said Hsien Loong. "That is the only sure-win policy for us, because whether they win or lose, they will generate gambling taxes...which Singaporeans can share in."

The government was seeking to boost the economy when they agreed to allow the two casinos. Millions of dollars are expected to be gained in tax revenue each year, with that money going back into the country through various programs. The government is stressing that if Singapore residents do the gambling, the money generated would just be recycled, and not actually helping the economy.

Macau started the casino gambling craze in Asia when they added casinos resorts. Macau has since become the casino gambling capital of the world, surpassing Las Vegas several years ago. The Macau industry is booming, with revenue increases reaching record numbers in the past couple of months.