The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) across the country’s maritime sector.
The initiative targets AI deployment across core shipping functions, including ship agency, ship management and chartering, shipping operations and bunkering.
Participating companies will be able to access a curated knowledge base of maritime AI use cases, connect with solution providers and trial applications within operational environments.
Firms will also be able to utilise AI Singapore’s AI Readiness Index (AIRI) framework to assess their current level of AI maturity and guide implementation strategies moving forward.
To support execution, MPA and SSA will collaborate with Institutes of Higher Learning and industry service providers to roll out structured training programmes.
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These are designed to equip maritime professionals with AI-related competencies aligned with evolving job roles and digital workflows.
According to the SSA, initial training sessions have already commenced, with 21 companies participating in early rollouts. A full-scale programme is scheduled for later in 2026.
Beyond training, the MoU includes plans for broader industry engagement. This will include a series of events over the coming months, culminating in the Maritime AI Forum in the second half of 2026.
The forum will focus on real-world AI applications, showcasing use cases and identifying practical deployment opportunities across maritime operations.
Both organisations will also explore the development of targeted AI innovation projects aimed at advancing adoption within Singapore’s maritime ecosystem.
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Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of MPA, stated: “Artificial intelligence will increasingly shape how maritime operations are planned and executed. Companies that are able to apply AI effectively, whether in improving vessel performance, optimising port operations or enhancing decision-making, will be better positioned to operate efficiently and remain competitive.”
TS Teo, SSA, added: “AI is reshaping industries, and our maritime sector must move decisively to forge ahead. Through this MoU, SSA is committed to helping companies embark on the AI adoption journey. By equipping companies and their workforce with the required knowledge, the right tools and the relevant capabilities, we strengthen the competitiveness of Maritime Singapore.”
