MPA encourages low-carbon LNG fuels to support shipping’s green transition, Licensees must demonstrate end-to-end supply readiness and own or charter LNG bunker vessels.
Singapore | January 14, 2026 – The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has officially opened applications for additional licences to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a marine fuel in the Port of Singapore, reinforcing the port’s position as a global hub for alternative marine fuels.
The new licensing call is open to both existing LNG bunker suppliers and new market entrants. It follows recent enhancements to Singapore’s LNG bunkering licensing framework and technical standards, which now allow for sea-based LNG reloading as well as the supply of liquefied bio-methane and e-methane alongside conventional LNG.
Expanded LNG Bunkering Framework
MPA said the updated framework is designed to support the growing demand for cleaner marine fuels while ensuring safety, reliability, and operational excellence across the LNG bunkering value chain. The inclusion of bio-methane and e-methane reflects Singapore’s commitment to supporting international shipping’s decarbonisation efforts.
Key Licensing Requirements
Under the licensing framework, LNG bunkering licensees are required to establish end-to-end LNG supply arrangements, covering:
- Securing LNG supply
- Demand planning
- Cargo transfer operations
- Storage and safe handling of LNG
- Sale, supply, and delivery of LNG fuel to vessels in Singapore
Licensees must also own or charter at least one LNG bunker vessel (LBV) for the full duration of the licence. The LBV must be registered under the Singapore Registry of Ships and comply with MPA’s Standards for Port Limit LNG Bunker Vessels, which set requirements for vessel design, equipment, and operational performance.
Focus on Decarbonisation and Methane Management
To align with global emissions reduction goals, applicants must submit a detailed proposal demonstrating their technical readiness to supply LNG fuels with lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, such as liquefied bio-methane and e-methane. This proposal should include intended supply pathways and sourcing strategies.
In addition, applicants are required to outline measures to monitor and mitigate methane slip from LNG bunker vessels. These measures may include vessel design features, operational practices, and monitoring or reporting methodologies. Methane management plans will form a key part of the licence evaluation process.
Application Timeline and Industry Briefings
Companies interested in supplying LNG as a marine fuel in Singapore can access detailed application information on MPA’s website. MPA will also conduct industry briefings to provide clarity on the licensing requirements and evaluation criteria.
Completed applications must be submitted to greenport (at) mpa.gov.sg no later than 27 March 2026.
Updated Standards for LNG Bunkering
To further strengthen Singapore’s LNG bunkering ecosystem, MPA and Enterprise Singapore, through the Singapore Standards Council, will upgrade the existing Technical Reference for LNG Bunkering (TR56) to a full Singapore Standard (SS) in Q2 2026.
The new standard will enhance and formalise the requirements under TR56, align LNG bunkering with Singapore’s broader bunkering standards, and serve as a key technical reference for LNG bunkering licence applicants.
MPA has also published the Standards for Port Limit LNG Bunker Vessels, developed in consultation with industry stakeholders, to ensure the safe and efficient operation of LNG bunker vessels in the port. The standards cover equipment specifications, operational performance, and efficiency requirements.
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