Singapore and the French government recently announced an enhanced version of the Maritime Partnership Agreement aimed at showcasing their joint commitment to promoting sustainable development, innovation, and maritime safety solutions. French President Macron unveiled this agreement during his visit to Singapore at the end of May.

According to Quah Ley Hoon, Director of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), this collaboration reflects the mutual commitment of both parties to advancing sustainable, innovative, and safe maritime solutions. The French shipping group CMA CGM will also participate in these initiatives, supporting fuel innovation and the adoption of digital standards, including the application of bio-methane. The partners will explore bio-methane supply chains and certification programs and plan to conduct the first bio-methane bunkering test in Singapore.

The Port of Singapore completed the world's first ammonia bunkering operation as ship fuel in March 2024 and is now collaborating with CMA CGM to facilitate the first bio-methane bunkering. Additionally, CMA CGM will support an initiative aimed at advancing digitalization, led by the French HAROPA Port Group and the Port of Marseille-Fos authority, to streamline port clearance processes and enhance the accuracy and timeliness of operational data.