The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the CMA CGM Group have extended their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote sustainable shipping and innovation.
The French shipping company intends to increase its fleet and vessel tonnage under the Singapore Registry of Ships, including four 23,000 TEU LNG vessels. The Group has spent approximately $20 billion on LNG and methanol-powered ships, and by 2029, its fleet will include 153 ships that can use low-carbon energy (biogas, biomethanol, and synthetic fuels).
To help with the shift to more sustainable fuels, CMA CGM will register and bunker alternative-fuel boats under the Singapore flag.
The corporation will also take part in bunkering trials.
CMA CGM Iron, the company’s first dual-fuel methanol vessel, made its maiden call in Singapore earlier this month, marking an important step in CMA CGM’s efforts to adopt alternative fuels and collaborate with Singapore on sustainable shipping initiatives.
MPA and CMA CGM will explore pilot trials, including the test-bedding of an online registry for carbon accounting and sharing best practices for zero and near-zero emission marine fuels.
CMA CGM will also engage in cybersecurity initiatives with MPA to enhance digital security in maritime operations.
The collaboration aims to strengthen the maritime innovation ecosystem in Singapore by fostering close ties between the shipping company’s entities, such as ZEBOX Group, and local innovation platforms like PIER71™.
CMA CGM will also enhance its regional presence by expanding new intra-Asia shipping services and leveraging Singapore as a regional transshipment hub.
The partnership will further develop local talent through leadership programmes, exchanges, internships, and scholarships.
Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, said: “By leveraging our collective expertise and resources, we aim to create a more sustainable and innovative maritime ecosystem.”
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, stated: “Together, we will drive forward innovative initiatives, particularly in the adoption of alternative fuels and digitalisation to enhance efficiency and performance.”
Recently, MPA and Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) published a new Technical Reference (TR) 129 on Methanol Bunkering through the Singapore Standards Council (SSC).