French Minister for Transport Philippe Tabarot and Singapore’s Acting Minister for Transport and Senior Minister of State for Finance Jeffrey Siow signed an Enhanced Maritime Partnership Agreement.
The agreement builds on an existing partnership established in 2021 and aims to further deepen maritime collaboration between the two countries.
This enhanced partnership focuses on five key areas: maritime decarbonisation, digitalisation, cybersecurity, innovation, and training.
As part of the agreement, Singapore and France will launch joint pilot projects in collaboration with industry stakeholders. A bio-methane bunkering trial, involving shipping giant CMA CGM, will be conducted in Singapore as a key milestone of the partnership.
On digitalisation, MPA will collaborate with HAROPA PORT and the Port of Marseille-Fos to enhance port call optimisation and digital processes. This includes trials with CMA CGM vessels to improve ship-to-shore data exchange, streamline port clearance procedures, minimise paperwork, and boost data accuracy and efficiency using internationally recognised standards.
The agreement also promotes maritime innovation and entrepreneurship, encouraging maritime startups, companies, and investors from both nations to participate in platforms such as the PIER71™ Smart Port Challenge, ZEBOX, and Landing Pad to drive cross-border innovation and collaboration.
Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, said this partnership represents a significant milestone in deepening maritime ties between Singapore and France, while, Eric Banel, Directorate General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture (DGAMPA), added that France and Singapore see this partnership as strategically vital to shaping the future of green shipping, digital ports, and resilient maritime systems.
