Singapore | November 2, 2025 – Singapore and the Republic of Korea (ROK) have strengthened their maritime partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the Singapore–ROK Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC).
The MoU was signed by Mr. Jeffrey Siow, Singapore’s Acting Minister for Transport, and Mr. Chun Jae Soo, ROK’s Minister of Oceans and Fisheries. The document was exchanged by Senior Minister of State for Transport Mr. Murali Pillai and Minister Mr. Chun Jae Soo, in the presence of Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and ROK President Lee Jae Myung on 2 November 2025.
Advancing Green Fuels and Maritime Decarbonisation
Under the MoU, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of the Republic of Korea will work together to support the maritime sector’s transition to zero or near-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emission fuels.
Key areas of collaboration include:
- Developing bunkering infrastructure for low- and zero-carbon fuels;
- Aligning technical standards for alternative fuel adoption;
- Exchanging technical expertise and conducting joint trials with industry and research partners;
- Providing joint training and capacity-building for maritime stakeholders.
The partnership will also accelerate digitalisation to improve data exchange, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen resilience across maritime and logistics networks.
Commitment to a Sustainable and Connected Maritime Future
“This partnership underscores our shared commitment to building a sustainable and future-ready maritime sector,” said Mr. Jeffrey Siow, Acting Minister for Transport. “By advancing clean energy, digital innovation, and skills development, we not only address national priorities but also contribute to global efforts for green shipping and strengthen supply chain resilience.”
Mr. Chun Jae Soo, Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, added: “The Republic of Korea and Singapore are key maritime partners in Asia, and together we will lead efforts to achieve international shipping decarbonisation. Through this cooperation, both countries will promote the adoption of green fuels and digital solutions, contributing to the sustainable growth of the global maritime sector.”
Driving Maritime Innovation Across Asia
The establishment of the Singapore–ROK Green and Digital Shipping Corridor reaffirms both nations’ commitment to maritime decarbonisation, digital innovation, and sustainable trade connectivity.
By combining Singapore’s expertise in global bunkering and digital maritime systems with Korea’s strengths in shipbuilding and marine technology, the partnership aims to accelerate the deployment of clean energy solutions and enhance the efficiency and sustainability of regional and global supply chains.
About MPA Singapore
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA Singapore) plays a pivotal role in shaping Singapore as a global hub for maritime trade and bunkering. Established in 1997, MPA oversees the country’s extensive port operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability in one of the world’s busiest ports. Singapore is consistently ranked as the top bunkering port globally, handling over 54 million metric tons of bunker fuel annually.
MPA Singapore is committed to promoting innovation in maritime practices and fostering collaboration within the industry to enhance maritime safety, decarbonisation, and digitalisation. With a strategic vision to lead in sustainable shipping, MPA continues to support the maritime community through various initiatives and partnerships, positioning Singapore at the forefront of the global maritime landscape.
Source MPA Singapore