The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Singapore’s maritime sector. This initiative aims to enhance productivity and competitiveness across various maritime operations.
Under the MOU, MPA and SSA will assist maritime companies in integrating AI into key functions such as ship agency, management, chartering, and bunkering operations. Companies will have access to a comprehensive knowledge base of maritime AI use cases, enabling them to connect with solution providers and pilot AI applications within their operations. Additionally, the AI Readiness Index (AIRI) framework by AI Singapore will guide companies in assessing their AI maturity.
To facilitate this transition, MPA and SSA will collaborate with Institutes of Higher Learning and service providers to develop training programmes. These programmes are designed to equip employees with the necessary skills for evolving job roles. SSA has already initiated AI training with 21 companies and plans a full rollout later in 2026.
The partnership will also see the organisation of industry engagements, including the Maritime AI Forum in the second half of 2026. This forum aims to raise AI awareness and showcase real-world applications. MPA Chief Executive Ang Wee Keong emphasised the importance of AI in enhancing maritime operations, stating, “Artificial intelligence will increasingly shape how maritime operations are planned and executed.”
SSA President TS Teo highlighted the transformative potential of AI, noting, “AI is reshaping industries, and our maritime sector must move decisively to forge ahead.” This partnership is set to position Singapore’s maritime industry at the forefront of AI innovation, ensuring its continued competitiveness on the global stage.
