Singapore and France have signed an Enhanced Maritime Partnership Agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral collaboration in key areas of the global maritime sector. The agreement was signed by French Minister for Transport, Philippe Tabarot, and Singapore’s Acting Minister for Transport and Senior Minister of State for Finance, Jeffrey Siow.
Building on an initial agreement established in 2021, the enhanced partnership expands cooperation across five strategic pillars: maritime decarbonisation, digitalisation, cybersecurity, innovation, and training.
A significant feature of the partnership is the launch of joint pilot projects involving industry stakeholders. One of the first key initiatives is a bio-methane bunkering trial to be conducted in Singapore, in collaboration with French shipping giant CMA CGM. The trial underscores both nations’ commitment to sustainable shipping and alternative fuels.
In the area of digitalisation, Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) will work closely with HAROPA PORT and the Port of Marseille-Fos to improve port call optimisation and streamline digital processes. Upcoming trials with CMA CGM vessels aim to enhance ship-to-shore data exchange, reduce administrative burdens, and increase data accuracy and operational efficiency using internationally accepted digital standards.
The agreement also supports maritime innovation by encouraging startups, companies, and investors from both countries to engage in platforms such as the PIER71™ Smart Port Challenge, ZEBOX, and Landing Pad. These platforms aim to foster cross-border collaboration, promote entrepreneurial exchange, and accelerate maritime technology development.
Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of the MPA, described the agreement as a milestone in Singapore-France maritime relations. He highlighted the potential of the partnership to drive long-term transformation in the maritime industry. Similarly, Eric Banel, Director General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture (DGAMPA), emphasized that the partnership is strategically vital to the development of green shipping, digital ports, and resilient maritime ecosystems.
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