Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) is introducing a whitelist of approved casino marketing phrases, simplified approval procedures for lower-risk promotional activity and wider use of artificial intelligence tools.
Outlined in the regulator’s reported 2025/26 annual report, these measures are intended to reduce administrative work while preserving oversight of casino operators, advertising, licensing and compliance.
New Marketing Phrases Aim To Reduce Repeated Casino Advertising Approvals
The GRA said marketing terms already assessed and authorised for specific applications would be included on the whitelist.
Operators will be able to use approved wording as a reference when preparing promotional materials, reducing the need to repeatedly seek clearance for the same text. The system should allow marketing and compliance teams to focus on campaign elements that require more detailed assessment.
Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority stressed that the changes do not remove existing advertising restrictions. Licensed operators remain prohibited from gambling advertising and promotions unless approval has been granted. They must use approved terms within the permitted context and follow attached conditions.
Singapore Reviews Tourism-Related Licence Conditions And Simulated Gaming Rules
The annual report referred to new tourism-related licence conditions for casino operators and a review of Singapore’s simulated gaming regime. These developments indicate that the regulator is examining how its rules apply across different activities and operating environments. Any changes to licence conditions will remain subject to the regulator’s compliance framework.
The GRA renewed the licences of Marina Bay Sands and Singapore Pools after assessing whether both operators met regulatory standards. Singapore has also introduced new rules covering electronic gaming credits, casino-related offences, anti-money laundering and protections for vulnerable players.
The second tranche of amendments to the Casino Control Act came into force on 21 September.
GRA Expands AI Use Under Its Operational Regulatory Masterplan
Artificial intelligence is another focus of the regulator’s operational update. GRA chief executive Daniel Tan said the authority had expanded its use of Microsoft Copilot and other digital tools under its AI Masterplan.
“Empowering officers to experiment with and apply AI has strengthened their capabilities and confidence in using these technologies effectively and responsibly, learning and improvement,” Tan said.
The tools are intended to help staff find information more quickly and reduce repetitive work. Decisions requiring professional judgement will remain subject to human oversight.
Casino Licence Fee Revenue Rises 34.6% During The Latest Financial Year
The GRA recorded SG 66.54 million in casino license fee for the financial year ending 31 March 2026, up from 34.6% from SG 49.42 million a year earlier. However, it cautioned that licence fees are recognised over the licence term on an accrual basis.
Therefore, this increase should not be interpreted as evidence of stronger casino performance or increased gambling activity. The GRA reported an annual surplus of SG 8.48 million, reversing SG5.80 million deficit in the previous year.
Singapore’s whitelist is a targeted measure to improve advertising efficiency among licensed operators. By clarifying acceptable language, the GRA reduces repetitive administrative work while retaining control over campaign context and execution. Its simultaneous investment in AI suggests a regulator seeking faster decisions without removing human accountability.
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