A senior official at Singapore’s tourism agency (STB) said the group was “aware” of a statement from the Chinese embassy in Singapore asking Chinese people to stay away from gambling while abroad, and tourism authorities were “respectful” of the concerns expressed.
The comments forwarded to GGRAsia were attributed to STB Executive Director Andrew Pua, a Greater China International Group. The tourism board said it dealt with a “Chinese market media query.”
Singapore’s city-state has dual casino markets and other limited forms of legal betting.
“STB is aware of the statement issued by the embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Singapore, and we respect their concerns,” Poi said.
“Even if casino facilities are legally set up outside mainland China’s borders, citizens may be in violation of our country’s laws against cross-border gambling, especially participation in gambling organizations,” the embassy’s Chinese message, published on WeChat last week, said
“China’s position on cross-border gambling is consistent and clear,” a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson told a regular press briefing in Beijing the same week. Lin Zhen, the official, said the media should deal with inquiries to “competent authorities” regarding “relevant legal provisions” dealing with the matter.
In an STB statement, Mr Pua said on behalf of the tourism organisation: “Singapore is a trusted and vibrant destination for both leisure and business.”
He added: “Chinese tourists visit Singapore for many reasons. Besides Singapore’s reputation as a family-friendly, bilingual, and safe destination, our diverse tour packages and strong event schedules make Singapore an attractive destination choice for Chinese visitors.”
The STB official also noted that the 30-day mutual visa waiver scheme with China “will continue to increase Singapore’s attractiveness as a tourist destination for Chinese visitors, increasing visitor arrivals and spending in Singapore across the tourism sector and related industries.”
About 327,000 people from China arrived in Singapore in February 2024, according to an STB statement, which “made China the top visitor source market in February, accounting for 96% of the 2019 figure.”
The update said the tourism board will continue its “Made in Singapore” campaign, which began in September 2023.
“We aim to reveal a rich and unique experience through branding and public relations [promotion] initiatives, giving Chinese visitors the opportunity to discover more hidden gems in Singapore in unexpected ways,” Pua said.
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