Singapore is reaffirming its role as a global energy hub amidst the challenges of transitioning to a low-carbon economy, as highlighted by Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry, Low Yen Ling, at the Asia Pacific Petroleum Conference (APPEC) 2025. The event, held on 8 September, attracted over 1,200 delegates from 46 countries, marking it as the most attended edition to date.
The conference’s theme, “Navigating Trade, Technology and Transition,” underscores the current turbulence in the global energy sector, driven by geopolitical tensions and the shift towards sustainable energy. Low emphasised Singapore’s commitment to supporting companies through the “3Ts”—Trade, Technology, and Transition.
In the realm of trade, Singapore remains a preferred hub, with energy trade growing from $1.44 trillion (US$1.44 trillion) to $1.67 trillion (US$1.67 trillion) between 2023 and 2024. The city-state also welcomed six new firms into its Global Traders Programme, including Yulong Petrochemical.
Technology is reshaping the industry, with firms incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into operations. Enterprise Singapore supports these advancements, exemplified by BHP Group Limited’s establishment of a regional AI hub in May 2025. Additionally, AI Singapore’s 100 Experiments initiative aids firms like Four Elements Capital in leveraging machine learning for trading insights.
As Singapore transitions to a low-carbon future, it is expanding its production of sustainable products and biofuels. The city-state hosts the world’s largest sustainable aviation fuel facility and is developing alternative maritime fuels, with ammonia expected to play a significant role by 2050.
The conference highlighted Singapore’s strategic position in carbon services and trading, with over 150 firms now operating in this sector. Major players like Shell and BP have established local carbon trading teams, reinforcing Singapore’s leadership in the energy transition.
“`
