It is hoped the initiatives will strengthen links within the trade, shipping and logistics eco-systems in Singapore. Source: Shutterstock

Singapore’s maritime sector to get two new digital platforms

By | 27 April, 2017

THE Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore is developing new digital platforms to prepare the sector for future digital transformation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of SEA Asia 2017 on Tuesday, Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure Khaw Boon Wan said the authority was developing a single portal access for submitting documents for port access called the Maritime Single Window, The Business Times reported.

Another cross-government effort for the sector will be directed at developing the next generation national trade platform. This will be a one-stop integrated, digital platform to connect shippers, shipping lines, the port, government agencies and logistics players.

“The lines between shipping, e-commerce and logistics are blurring,” Khaw said.

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“For example, Amazon will soon be launching its own shipping and logistics operations. What does this spell for shipping companies when e-retail giants have in-house shipping operations? Freight forwarders too would have noticed the Maersk and CMA CGM partnerships with Alibaba to allow shippers to book space on container ships online,” he said.

It is hoped the initiatives will deepen collaboration along supply chains and strengthen links within the trade, shipping and logistics eco-systems in Singapore.

The city-state wants to play a bigger role in new areas such as e-fulfillment and multi-modal connectivity.

The minister explained superior connectivity these days “will be measured in multi-modal terms … and may be as much digital as physical”.

“We have to ensure our maritime manpower is equipped to handle transformation for some of them, to drive the transformation,” Boon said.



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Heidi Vella is a freelance energy and technology journalist based in London. Her interests include smart cities, clean energy, emerging markets and technology innovation. Prior to working freelance, Heidi spent four years’ covering all things technology and energy-related for London-based Progressive Digital Media.

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