Singapore maritime industry steps up AI integration with MPA-SSA deal
Maritime firms gain access to AI pilot systems and readiness tools under the agreement.
Singapore’s maritime sector will accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) adoption as the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) signed a memorandum of understanding to expand adoption across core shipping functions.
In a press release, the MPA said the agreement sets out joint efforts to broaden AI use in ship agency, ship management and chartering, shipping operations, and bunkering.
This will give companies access to a maritime AI use-case knowledge base, links to solution providers, and opportunities to pilot AI systems in operational settings.
The initiative also draws on AI Singapore’s AI Readiness Index framework to assess company maturity and guide adoption planning.
MPA and SSA will also coordinate with Institutes of Higher Learning and service providers to develop training programmes aimed at workforce reskilling and AI strategy development.
SSA has begun initial training runs involving 21 companies, with wider rollout planned later in 2026.
Industry engagement will continue through a series of events, including a Maritime AI Forum scheduled for the second half of 2026, the MPA said.
The forum is intended to showcase applied AI use cases and support companies in identifying implementation opportunities. Both organisations will also explore AI innovation projects for maritime applications.
Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive Officer of MPA, said AI would increasingly shape operational planning and execution in maritime activities. He said firms applying AI in vessel performance, port operations, and decision-making would be better positioned to operate and compete.
TS Teo, President of SSA, said the sector must advance AI adoption. He said the partnership aims to equip companies with knowledge, tools, and capabilities to support workforce development and strengthen Maritime Singapore’s competitiveness.
