Singapore and France Join Forces to Propel Maritime Digital Transformation and Innovation

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According to a recent publication by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Singapore and France have entered into an Enhanced Maritime partnership Agreement aimed at enhancing collaboration in areas such as maritime decarbonisation, digital transformation, cybersecurity, innovation, and training.

the agreement was formalized during President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Singapore by French transport Minister Philippe Tabarot and Singapore’s acting Transport minister Jeffrey siow. This initiative builds on their previous maritime partnership established in 2021, reinforcing the ties between two prominent global maritime centers.

This new partnership zeroes in on several critical domains. Key focuses include collaborative efforts towards green shipping practices, advancing port digitalization, ensuring maritime safety, enhancing cybersecurity measures, fostering innovation, and providing training opportunities. The agreement underscores a shared dedication to developing sustainable and innovative solutions for the maritime industry.

As part of this collaboration, both nations will engage wiht industry stakeholders to implement pilot projects that align with these focus areas. A notable objective within the realm of decarbonisation is establishing a bio-methane supply chain along with a certification framework that guarantees compliance with international sustainability standards set forth by organizations like the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Singapore is set to initiate its frist bio-methane bunkering trial alongside French shipping giant CMA CGM under this framework. This trial represents an exciting step forward in sustainable fuel usage within the sector.Additionally, MPA plans to partner with HAROPA PORT and Marseille-Fos Port to enhance port call optimization while upgrading digital systems for smoother maritime operations. This includes experimenting with ship-to-shore data exchange systems through CMA CGM aimed at streamlining port clearance processes—reducing reliance on manual paperwork while boosting operational efficiency using globally accepted digital standards.The partnership also seeks to ignite innovation within the maritime sector by encouraging companies from both countries—including startups—to participate in open innovation platforms like PIER71 Smart port Challenge or ZEBOX.

Teo Eng Dih from MPA emphasized that this partnership marks a pivotal moment for strengthening ties between Singapore and France’s maritime sectors. He noted that their joint efforts would pave the way for practical solutions geared towards achieving a greener future for global shipping.

Echoing these sentiments was Eric Banel from DGAMPA who remarked that this agreement reflects both nations’ commitment toward building secure and innovative frameworks within their respective maritime industries.