Singapore, France ink maritime partnership agreement
The governments of France and Singapore, through their respective transport ministries, have entered into an enhanced partnership agreement to further strengthen maritime cooperation between the two countries.
The agreement will cover collaboration in maritime digitalisation, cybersecurity, innovation and training, and builds on an earlier partnership established in 2021 between the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the French Directorate General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture.
The MPA said projects under the agreement will include the development of a bio-methane supply chain and certification framework to ensure compatibility with various sustainability standards.
The first bio-methane bunkering trial in Singapore under this partnership, based on the certification framework, will also be conducted with shipping company CMA CGM as part of this initiative.
On digitalisation, MPA will also partner with France's Haropa Port and the Port of Marseille-Fos to advance port call optimisation and maritime digitalisation.
This will include trials with CMA CGM on ship-to-shore data exchange to automate and streamline port clearance processes, reduce manual documentation, and improve the timeliness and accuracy of operational data using internationally recognised standards.
"By working together, we aim to advance practical solutions that supports a more sustainable and digitally connected maritime future," said Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA.
