The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha to deepen their partnership and accelerate efforts in maritime decarbonisation, digitalisation, and manpower development.

This MoU builds upon the long-standing relationship between Singapore and NYK, which began when the newly-formed NYK started its international service. The ship Hiroshima-maru called at the Port of Singapore on 25 November 1893, en route between Kobe and Bombay. By the late 1890s, NYK had established the Japan-European trade route, reinforcing Singapore’s significance as a hub port.

In 1975, NYK Bulkship Asia set up its office in Singapore, continuing to expand its operations over the years. Today, Singapore serves as the Group’s regional headquarters for its non-liner businesses and the global operating headquarters for its joint venture liner setup, Ocean Network Express.

NYK Ship Management and Maritime Singapore have also collaborated to support students pursuing Diplomas in Nautical Studies and Marine Engineering.

Leveraging the vessels under the Singapore Registry of Ships, MPA and NYK will collaborate on:

1. Decarbonisation: Accelerating the green transition in shipping by promoting the safe use of alternative fuels through a phased approach.
2. Digitalisation: Advancing the digital transformation of the maritime sector. NYK has been a pioneer in maritime innovation, establishing Symphony Creative Solutions, a corporate accelerator and technology solutions provider, in collaboration with Weathernews Inc. and Kozo Keikaku Engineering Inc. SCS actively participates in the Pier71 Smart Port Challenge annually.
3. Manpower Development: Collaborating on training programmes for seafarers on alternative fuel vessels and other sustainability-related skills and competencies to support the multi-fuel transition, including leadership programmes for local professionals.

The MPA looks forward to its partnership with NYK continuing to flourish. Both parties aim to develop scalable solutions to benefit the global maritime community while uplifting the maritime workforce in the transition towards more sustainable shipping.