On March 21, 2025, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) made a significant stride towards a greener and more technologically advanced maritime industry. The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), reinforcing their commitment to maritime decarbonization and digitalization. This collaboration will bring valuable advancements to both ports, accelerating efforts to reduce carbon emissions and enhance digital capabilities within the maritime sector.
Key Focus Areas: Sustainability and Innovation
This new MOU sets the stage for both parties to exchange information and explore joint efforts in tackling key global challenges. The collaboration will focus on using digital technology and innovative solutions to manage risks, reduce environmental impact, and create more sustainable maritime operations.
A Strong Partnership Built on Shared Values
Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, expressed his excitement about this partnership:
“This MOU marks a significant step in the energy and digital transition. At Port of Antwerp-Bruges, we are committed to pioneering towards a sustainable and secure future. We are eager to collaborate and exchange knowledge within our partnerships, and we look forward to working closely with MPA to achieve our shared goals.”
The MOU was officially exchanged during a State visit to Belgium by His Excellency Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, on March 25, 2025. The exchange took place between Mr. Johan Klaps, Vice-Mayor of the City of Antwerp and President of the Board of Directors of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, and Mr. Lim Hong Huai, Singapore’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.
Driving Maritime Decarbonization and Digitalization
Teo Eng Dih, CEO of MPA, highlighted the importance of knowledge exchange and collaboration in advancing maritime sustainability:
“Our collaboration with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges marks an important step in advancing our shared goals of maritime decarbonization and digitalization. Collaboration and knowledge exchange will be key to driving innovation and achieving sustainability in the sector, and we look forward to the strengthened partnership with Port of Antwerp-Bruges to create a more sustainable, efficient, and secure maritime future.”
Johan Klaps further emphasized the benefits of the partnership:
“We are very pleased to build on our strong partnership with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. Our ports are intrinsically linked, which also means we share the same challenges. Further cooperation will therefore allow us to continue to grow into high-performing and environmentally friendly economic hubs.”
About the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) was established on 2 February 1996 with the mission of developing Singapore as a global maritime hub. The authority plays a vital role in regulating and planning maritime and port activities, advocating for digitalization and decarbonization initiatives, and ensuring environmental protection. MPA’s ongoing collaboration with the international maritime community, including industry partners and research organizations, is helping to create a sustainable maritime environment.
About the Port of Antwerp-Bruges
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges is a critical hub in worldwide trade, handling over 278 million tonnes of cargo annually. With a focus on sustainability, the port aims to be the world’s first port to reconcile economy, people, and climate. The port is home to 1,400 companies and accommodates Europe’s largest integrated chemical cluster. By promoting a circular and low-carbon economy, the port is actively working towards innovative solutions to secure a sustainable future.
Source Port of Antwerp-Bruges