Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has announced its participation as an innovation partner in the PIER71 Smart Port Challenge 2025, a maritime innovation accelerator programme in Singapore. This marks the first time MOL’s Singapore Sub-Headquarters, MOL (Asia Oceania) Pte. Ltd. (MOLAO), will engage in this initiative, which aims to tackle pressing issues in the shipping industry through collaboration with startups.
The ten-week programme, commencing in September, will see MOLAO working alongside MOL PLUS Co., Ltd., which is participating for the fifth consecutive year. Together, they will provide expertise, business development support, and opportunities for proof of concept trials to startups. This collaboration aims to foster innovation and address industry challenges by leveraging MOL’s extensive network in the Asia-Oceania region.
MOL PLUS, acting as an investment partner, will focus on investing in startups and supporting their growth, particularly in the ocean shipping and logistics sectors. This initiative aligns with MOL Group’s “BLUE ACTION 2035” management plan, which seeks to enhance its relationship with the Singaporean government and accelerate global open innovation activities.
The PIER71 Smart Port Challenge, a core initiative of the Port Innovation Ecosystem Reimagined at BLOCK71, is jointly founded by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and NUS Enterprise. It provides startups with opportunities to propose solutions in logistics efficiency, decarbonisation, and port digitisation.
By participating in SPC2025, MOL Group aims to deepen its collaboration with Singapore and drive innovation in the maritime industry, ultimately contributing to the transformation and advancement of shipping operations globally.
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