The casinos inside Singapore’s two integrated resorts will remain closed beyond June 1, according to the local Casino Regulatory Authority (CRA). A majority of other businesses in the city-state can resume operations starting on June 2.
Singapore’s gaming duopoly includes Resorts World Sentosa, operated by a unit of Genting Singapore Ltd.; and Marina Bay Sands, operated by a unit of the U.S.-based Las Vegas Sands Corp.
“The Ministry of Trade and Industry announced on 19 May the list of businesses which are allowed to resume operations from 2 June 2020 onwards. Casinos are not included within the list,” said the CRA in an emailed statement to GGRAsia.
It added: “The government will further monitor and assess developments in the Covid-19 situation to determine the appropriate timelines for the gradual resumption of more businesses and activities, including the casinos.”
The Singapore government has said that about three-quarters of businesses in the city would be allowed to resume activities in a phased manner, following restrictions that had been extended until June 1. “But social, economic and entertainment activities that carry higher risk will remain closed,” it stated. “With the phased approach, we are ready to help our workers go back to work and allow businesses to resume in a safe way.”
Hotels and casinos are not part of Phase I of the reopening process. Some restaurants will be allowed to reopen for takeout and deliveries to customers.
Genting Singapore, which operates Resorts World Sentosa, said last week that its business was “severely affected” by disruption caused by Covid-19 starting as early as the end of January, with things “worsening” over the first quarter. The company said that suspension of operations was “likely to continue into the near future.”
