The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to deepen collaboration across maritime decarbonisation, digitalisation, innovation, and manpower development.

The MoU was signed on 25 May by Mr Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of MPA, and Mr Soren Toft, Chief Executive Officer of MSC. The signing coincides with the 30th anniversary of MSC establishing its Asia Regional Office and local office in Singapore.

Under the agreement, MPA and MSC will explore new shipping routes and services to strengthen connectivity, support the adoption of alternative marine fuels — including bio-LNG — and advance technologies aimed at improving vessel energy efficiency and operational performance.

The two parties will also collaborate on digitalisation initiatives, including the streamlining of vessel arrivals and port operations. On the workforce side, MSC will support internship and scholarship opportunities through the Singapore Maritime Foundation’s Maritime Outreach Network (MaritimeONE) platform, a tripartite partnership comprising industry, government and institutes of higher learning.

Mr Ang said: “This partnership reflects the strong collaboration between MPA and MSC in driving sustainability and digitalisation in the maritime sector. By working together on decarbonisation, operational efficiency and talent development, we aim to strengthen Maritime Singapore’s position as a trusted and future-ready global maritime hub.”

Mr Toft said: “Singapore is a strategically important hub for MSC and a key gateway to the broader Asia region. As we mark 30 years in Singapore, this MoU reinforces our long-term commitment to strengthening our presence here. MSC and Singapore are closely aligned on the priorities shaping the future of global shipping, and we look forward to deepening this partnership to drive the continued growth and resilience of the maritime industry.”