Qingdao Port and Singapore strengthen green and digital shipping cooperation

The agreement aims to translate existing cooperation frameworks into practical measures focused on alternative marine fuels, digital port operations and technological innovation.

Key areas of cooperation

Under the work plan, Qingdao Port and MPA will focus on three areas:

• Alternative marine fuels: The two parties will explore pilot projects involving the bunkering of zero- and near-zero-emission marine fuels, including methanol, on direct shipping routes between Qingdao and Singapore. They will also assess methanol bunkering demand and exchange knowledge on bunkering standards and operational procedures.
• Digital shipping: Cooperation will focus on exchanging vessel operational data through Qingdao Port’s Cloud Port Connect platform and Singapore’s OCEANS-X platform. The initiative aims to improve vessel arrival information, berth planning, port resource allocation and operational efficiency.
• Research and innovation: The partners will work with research institutions, including China’s Waterborne Transport Research Institute and the Singapore Maritime Institute, to support technical exchanges and joint research on alternative marine fuels and shipping digitalization.

Supporting the development of green shipping corridors

The work plan builds on existing cooperation between China and Singapore to develop greener and more digitally connected shipping routes. By linking alternative-fuel infrastructure development with digital information exchange, the initiative seeks to support shipping decarbonization while improving port efficiency and supply chain coordination.

The cooperation also provides a framework for collaboration among port authorities, research institutions and other maritime stakeholders, with an emphasis on implementing practical projects.