Singapore: India and Singapore have taken a significant step towards maritime sustainability and digital transformation by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) to cooperate on maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation. The agreement was signed by Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, and R. Lakshmanan, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) of India. The signing was witnessed by Dr. Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and Ministry of Transport, Singapore, and Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways of India.
The LOI sets the foundation for collaboration between the two nations in key areas such as maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation. Both countries will work together to identify relevant stakeholders and initiatives, with the ultimate goal of formalising their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a Singapore-India Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC).
India, recognized globally for its expertise in information technology, is poised to become a major producer and exporter of green marine fuels. Singapore, as one of the world’s leading transshipment and bunkering hubs, has a robust research and innovation ecosystem that supports advancements in maritime sustainability. The Singapore-India GDSC, once established, will strengthen bilateral cooperation and accelerate the development and adoption of zero or near-zero Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission technologies and digital solutions in the maritime sector.
The agreement underscores the commitment of both nations to drive innovation in maritime operations and contribute to a cleaner, more efficient global shipping industry. This strategic partnership is expected to set a benchmark for international collaborations in green and digital shipping, reinforcing India and Singapore’s leadership in maritime sustainability and technological advancement.
