Singapore and France Strengthen Maritime Partnership for Sustainability and Innovation
Highlighting their shared commitment to advancing sustainability, innovation, and secure maritime solutions, the governments of Singapore and France have announced an enhanced maritime partnership agreement. This collaboration, which aims to drive key initiatives in sustainability and digitalization, was unveiled following French President Emmanuel Macron’s two-day visit to Singapore as part of his Asian tour in late May.
Eric Banel, Director General for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries, and Aquaculture in Singapore, emphasized, “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing sustainable, innovative, and secure maritime solutions. Both France and Singapore, renowned global maritime hubs and leaders in innovation and engineering, recognize the strategic importance of strengthening cooperation in port digitalization, green shipping, and maritime safety and security.”
French shipping company CMA CGM is set to participate in these initiatives, aiming to drive fuel innovation and promote the adoption of digital standards within the industry.
Focus on Biomethane Adoption
A key pilot project under this partnership will focus on promoting the adoption of biomethane. This initiative aims to advance maritime decarbonization by exploring the development of a bio-methane supply chain and certification program.
The partners are planning the first bio-methane bunkering trial in Singapore, with efforts underway to establish a certification framework similar to the successful ammonia bunkering certification program previously developed by Singapore. CMA CGM will collaborate on this initiative to conduct the first bio-methane bunkering, aligning with their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Digitization Initiatives
Additionally, CMA CGM will support an initiative between France’s HAROPA Port and the Port of Marseille-Fos authority to drive digitization efforts. This collaboration will focus on optimizing port calls and testing ship-to-shore data exchange to automate and streamline port clearance procedures. By reducing manual documentation and promoting internationally recognized data standards, the industry aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of operational data.