Inside Asian Gaming

inside asian gaming February 2015 30 decision may rest on whether it wants to bring even more tourism- driving infrastructure to the city; the original licenses being widely regarded as deriving from its desire for more theme parks and MICE space. Tourism could use a jolt. Through the first 11 months of last year, tourist arrivals were down 3.4%, and visitor expenditures fell 3% in the first half, according to the most recent data released by the Singapore Tourism Board. If those figures hold, it would be the first annual drop in either category since the IR openings, reflecting a broader trend. While visitor arrivals and expenditures have grown from 9.7 million and S$12.6 million, respectively, in 2009 to an estimated 15 million and $22.8 million last year, by far the biggest increases came in 2010, when arrivals jumped 19.6% year on year and spending soared 50%, as the region emerged from the global recession. It’s difficult to say how much of the 2010 growth resulted from the Cover Story catalyst provided by the IRs and how much was down to timing. The growth rate of visitor arrivals and spending has declined every year since 2010, while expenditure per visitor decreased though 2013, but could have risen marginally last year. Singapore faces further challenges as IRs sprout across the region, but would-be rivals don’t match its destination appeal. “Singapore has a niche with regard to safety, transportation, everything,” Mr Gore says. “I don’t think anybody’s going to threaten them.” “Singapore is well-organized, and it’s easy to do stuff,” says Brewerkz microbrewery founder Devin Kimble, who flirted with MBS about locating a branch in its bayfront floating pavilions. Although they may not have delivered all that the government hoped for, Mr Kimble believes, “On balance, the IRs have been quite positive, opened up some things. They’ve added some spice, architectural interest, theater options, music options. … Having a zoo just isn’t the same.” Tourism could use a jolt. Through the first 11 months of last year, tourist arrivals were down 3.4%, and visitor expenditures fell 3% in the first half, according to the most recent data released by the Singapore Tourism Board. Despite high hotel and other costs, Singapore’s air connectivity, safety and widespread use of English and Chinese, make it a favorite of event organizers. MICE isn’t a huge money spinner for MBS, accounting for 3% of third-quarter revenue at $23.9 million, but it supports more lucrative hotel, F&B, casino and shopping mall operations. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands