MPA eyes 2027 release of maritime master plan

AI and maritime innovation are key priorities under the plan.

Singapore is developing a new Maritime Singapore Master Plan to strengthen the sector’s competitiveness, innovation, and workforce.

Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport Murali Pillai joined a focus group discussion on Wednesday with students, parents, educators, career counsellors and community groups on maritime careers and opportunities.

The discussion is part of consultations led by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) for the Master Plan, which is targeted for release in 2027.

The plan will focus on strengthening Singapore’s position as a key node and hub port, enhancing its appeal as an International Maritime Centre, advancing maritime innovation including artificial intelligence, and developing a future-ready workforce.

“As the maritime sector evolves amid changing global trade patterns, technological advances and energy transition, there is a need to refresh Singapore’s longer-term strategies for the maritime sector, to secure good growth for our maritime businesses and good jobs for Singaporeans,” MPA said.

MPA began consultations in March and has received feedback from more than 50 stakeholder groups, including companies and unions. It has also formed a Local Industry Panel of more than 20 maritime business leaders.

The authority is also holding two focus groups on maritime careers to understand factors influencing career choices and how to make maritime jobs more attractive.

Public engagement has also been underway since May through the Maritime Singapore Master Plan Public Survey, the “Maritime Singapore in 2050” AI Image Contest and the “Voyage Beyond: Reimagining Maritime Singapore” travelling exhibition.

Members of the public can submit feedback on the Master Plan until 30 September 2026.