The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (“MPA“) has set out a series of initiatives relating to technology and artificial intelligence (“AI“) in the maritime industry.
Singapore Maritime Technology & Research Roadmap
MPA and the Singapore Maritime Institute launched the new edition of the Singapore Maritime Technology & Research Roadmap. The 2026 roadmap builds on the foundation of the previous roadmap, sharpening the focus on translating research into deployable solutions for a more advanced, efficient and sustainable maritime sector.
The roadmap sets out four key areas for action:
- autonomous port operation;
- safe and efficient delivery of alternative energy;
- smart ships; and
- intelligent and integrated port services.
MOU on AI Adoption
MPA and the Singapore Shipping Association (“SSA“) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU“) to accelerate the adoption of AI among maritime companies in Singapore to improve productivity and strengthen competitiveness, including the following efforts:
- MPA and SSA will support maritime companies in adopting AI across key functions.
- Companies will be able to access a knowledge base of maritime AI use cases to inform their adoption plans, connect with solution providers, and pilot AI applications in their own operating environment.
- MPA and SSA will work with Institutes of Higher Learning and service providers to develop and roll out training programmes.
MOU on Global Maritime Transition in Decarbonisation and Digitalisation
MPA has signed a MOU with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (“UNCTAD“) to support maritime decarbonisation and digitalisation efforts globally. MPA and UNCTAD will work together to share knowledge and best practices in areas such as sustainable finance and manpower development. It will also include capacity building and technical training for developing countries to strengthen their maritime capabilities and port resilience.
Launch of OCEANS-X
MPA has launched OCEANS-X, a new data and Application Programming Interface (“API“) exchange platform. It enables secure system-to-system connectivity across the maritime ecosystem, allowing maritime companies and government agencies to exchange trusted data directly. OCEANS-X includes the following key features:
- Shipping companies and agents can connect their in-house or third-party systems directly to the OCEANS-X platform, for data required for port clearance applications to be transmitted directly to MPA digital platforms.
- OCEANS-X enables the electronic exchange of ship certificates between Singapore and its partner ports.
- OCEANS-X currently hosts over 100 APIs and datasets, and will support a wider range of digital services over time.
Click on the following links for more information (available on the MPA website at www.mpa.gov.sg):
- MPA and Singapore Maritime Institute Joint Media Release titled “Singapore Maritime Technology & Research Roadmap 2026 Edition to Advance Maritime Innovation and Capabilities Development”
- MPA Media Release titled “Singapore’s Maritime Sector to Accelerate Artificial Intelligence (AI) Adoption Under New Partnership”
- MPA and UNCTAD Joint Media Release titled “MPA and UNCTAD Partner to Support Global Maritime Transition in Decarbonisation and Digitalisation”
- MPA Media Release titled “Singapore Launches OCEANS-X to Advance Maritime Digital Connectivity and Support Global Trade Flows”