The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the CMA CGM Group have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further enhance sustainable shipping and digital innovation. This partnership builds on the initial MoU signed in 2022, reinforcing both parties’ shared commitment to fortifying Singapore’s status as a leading maritime hub.
The MoU was officially signed by Mr. Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, and Mr. Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group. This renewal signals the ongoing strength of their collaboration aimed at advancing maritime decarbonisation and digitalisation.
A Commitment to Decarbonisation and Digitalisation
Under the renewed MoU, CMA CGM is set to expand its fleet and vessel tonnage with the addition of more vessels under the Singapore Registry of Ships, including four large 23,000 TEU LNG-powered vessels. This significant fleet expansion underpins Singapore’s importance as CMA CGM’s maritime hub and further supports the company’s ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2050.
As part of its strategic investment, CMA CGM has already committed nearly USD 20 billion to the acquisition of LNG and methanol-powered ships. By 2029, the Group plans to have 153 ships capable of utilizing low-carbon fuels, such as biogas, biomethanol, and synthetic fuels.
To support this transition, CMA CGM will register and bunker alternative-fuel vessels under the Singapore flag, while actively engaging in bunkering trials. Notably, in early March 2025, the company’s first dual-fuel methanol vessel, CMA CGM Iron, made its inaugural call in Singapore, marking a milestone in the Group’s commitment to alternative fuels and their collaboration with Singapore on sustainable shipping.
Furthermore, the MoU includes plans for pilot trials, such as testing an online registry for carbon accounting and sharing best practices for zero and near-zero emission marine fuels. Both parties also intend to explore the development and implementation of efficient and secure data exchange standards between ship and shore, with a focus on cybersecurity initiatives to enhance digital security in maritime operations.
Driving Maritime Innovation and Strengthening Regional Presence
The renewed partnership aims to foster greater innovation within Singapore’s maritime ecosystem. Both MPA and CMA CGM will encourage closer collaboration between CMA CGM Group’s innovation entities, such as ZEBOX Group, and local innovation platforms like PIER71™. This will enable the development of new solutions that drive efficiency and sustainability in the maritime sector.
CMA CGM also intends to expand its regional presence by launching new intra-Asia shipping services and leveraging Singapore as a regional transshipment hub, further enhancing the nation’s position in the global maritime network.
Developing the Maritime Workforce of the Future
The MoU also underscores a shared commitment to workforce development. As part of the partnership, CMA CGM will collaborate with MPA to create leadership programs, internships, and scholarships aimed at developing local talent. This includes a seafarers’ training program focused on operating alternative fuel vessels, which will be rolled out through the Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF).
Announced in 2024, the METF is dedicated to equipping the maritime workforce with the necessary skills to handle emerging fuels such as ammonia and methanol, ensuring the industry is prepared for the ongoing transition to cleaner energy sources.
Mr. Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, commented, “This MoU marks a significant milestone in our collaboration with CMA CGM and demonstrates the company’s strong support for our shared vision to drive decarbonisation, digitalisation, and workforce development within the maritime sector. Together, we will leverage our collective expertise and resources to create a more sustainable and innovative maritime ecosystem.”
Mr. Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of the CMA CGM Group, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I am pleased to renew our partnership with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, strengthening Singapore’s position as a key maritime hub for CMA CGM. This collaboration will advance innovative initiatives, particularly in the adoption of alternative fuels and digitalisation, helping us enhance efficiency and performance across our operations. It reflects our commitment to building a resilient and sustainable global trade network.”
About the CMA CGM Group
The CMA CGM Group, led by Chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé, is one of the largest shipping companies in the world, operating across 420 ports globally. In 2022, the Group transported 21.7 million TEU containers and continues to lead the way in logistics, shipping, and air freight services through subsidiaries like CEVA Logistics and CMA CGM AIR CARGO. With a firm commitment to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2050, the Group is pioneering the use of alternative fuels and sustainable logistics solutions.
About MPA Singapore
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA Singapore) plays a central role in positioning Singapore as a global maritime and bunkering hub. Established in 1997, MPA oversees the nation’s port operations, ensuring maritime safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Singapore remains the top bunkering port in the world, handling over 54 million metric tons of bunker fuel annually. MPA continues to promote innovation in maritime practices and fosters collaboration across the sector to advance maritime safety, decarbonisation, and digitalisation.
Source MPA Singapore