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) among maritime companies in Singapore to improve productivity and strengthen competitiveness.

MPA said in a statement on Tuesday that the authority and SSA will support maritime companies in adopting AI across key functions, including ship agency, ship management and chartering, shipping operations, as well as bunkering operations.

Companies will be able to access a knowledge base of maritime AI use cases to inform their adoption plans, connect with solution providers, and pilot AI applications in their own operating environment.

They can also draw on AI Singapore’s AI Readiness Index (AIRI) framework to understand their AI maturity and guide their next steps.

To support implementation, MPA and SSA will work with Institutes of Higher Learning and service providers to develop and roll out training programs.

These will equip employees with the skills required for evolving job roles and support companies in developing AI strategies.

SSA has started initial runs of the AI training program with 21 companies participating, and has a full rollout planned for later in 2026.

Under the MOU, MPA and SSA will organize a series of industry engagements in the coming months, including the Maritime AI Forum in the second half this year.

The forum aims to raise awareness of AI and will provide an opportunity for companies to learn from real-world AI applications and identify practical use cases. MPA and SSA will also explore impactful AI innovation projects for the maritime industry.

“AI will increasingly shape how maritime operations are planned and executed. Companies that are able to apply AI effectively, whether in improving vessel performance, optimizing port operations or enhancing decision-making, will be better positioned to operate efficiently and remain competitive,” said Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive, MPA.

TS Teo, President, SSA, said AI is reshaping industries, and the 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,” he added.

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