Singapore | November 24, 2025 – In a landmark move set to reshape the global marine fuels landscape, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has announced it will award licences to supply methanol as a marine fuel in the Port of Singapore starting 1 January 2026. The decision follows a Call for Applications initiated in March 2025 and represents one of the most significant steps yet toward establishing methanol bunkering at commercial scale in the world’s largest bunkering hub.
The introduction of methanol bunkering aligns with Singapore’s long-term strategy to maintain its leadership in the global energy transition and to evolve into a sustainable, multi-fuel maritime ecosystem capable of supporting next-generation low-carbon vessels.
Three Industry Players Awarded Licences
Following a rigorous evaluation process, MPA has selected three companies, Global Energy Trading Pte Ltd, Golden Island Pte Ltd, and PetroChina International (Singapore) Pte Ltd, from a pool of 13 applicants.
These firms will be the first in Singapore permitted to supply methanol to vessels calling at the port.
MPA stated that applicants were assessed on criteria including:
- Supply chain reliability and robustness, ensuring consistent access to methanol feedstock and secure logistics for marine delivery.
- Operational readiness, encompassing vessel capabilities, terminal arrangements, crew competency, and digital reporting systems.
- Safety systems and protocols, given methanol’s distinct handling characteristics and associated hazards.
- Sustainability certification, such as verification that supplied methanol meets internationally recognized standards for low-carbon, renewable, or bio-derived fuels.
The overwhelming level of interest, MPA noted, signals the maritime sector’s accelerating shift toward lower-emission fuels as shipowners prepare for upcoming environmental regulations and the decarbonisation targets of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Five-Year Licensing Period Aimed at Building Market Confidence
The newly issued methanol bunkering licences will remain valid for five years, running from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2030. The multi-year duration is designed to give licensees confidence and runway to:
- Invest in dedicated methanol bunkering assets, including bunker tankers and storage solutions.
- Build and scale fuel supply chains, from sourcing methanol, both conventional and green, to strengthening logistics infrastructure.
- Support the early adoption phase of methanol-powered vessels, which major carriers and shipowners have begun integrating into their fleets.
Market analysts expect methanol bunkering volumes in Singapore to climb steadily once commercial operations begin, particularly as container shipping giants and energy companies commit to methanol dual-fuel vessels and low-carbon operations.
MPA to Continuously Refine Regulatory Framework
MPA emphasized that it will adopt a dynamic and adaptive approach to methanol bunkering regulation. The agency plans to review and refine the licensing framework based on:
- On-the-ground operational experience and bunkering trials
- Technological advancements in methanol engines, safety systems, and bunkering equipment
- Evolving international standards, including updates from the IMO, ISO, and other regulatory bodies
The goal, MPA said, is to ensure that Singapore’s framework remains practical, robust, globally aligned, and capable of supporting safe and scalable implementation as methanol becomes a mainstream marine fuel choice.
Strategic Significance: Singapore’s Next Leap in Alternative Fuels
Singapore has been actively preparing for a multi-fuel future, with methanol emerging as one of the most commercially viable low-emission options. Its benefits, ease of storage, compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure, and reduced emissions profile, have positioned it as a leading transition fuel alongside LNG, biofuels, and emerging hydrogen-derived fuels.
By moving swiftly to licence methanol bunkering, Singapore signals its commitment not only to supporting global decarbonisation efforts, but also to securing its competitive edge as the world’s premier bunkering port.
The industry now awaits the start of operations in January 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter in sustainable marine energy within the region and beyond.
About the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)
Established in 1996, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) develops Singapore as a global hub port and international maritime centre while safeguarding the nation’s strategic maritime interests. MPA serves as the maritime regulator, port planner, and international maritime representative, driving Singapore’s digitalisation and decarbonisation agenda. Working closely with industry, academia, and other government agencies, MPA enhances safety, security, environmental protection, and manpower development to sustain Singapore’s maritime growth.
Source: MPA Singapore