Singapore Targets 2027 Release for New Maritime Master Plan

Singapore is developing a new Maritime Singapore Master Plan aimed at strengthening its position as a global maritime hub, with artificial intelligence, innovation and workforce development among the key priorities.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is leading consultations for the plan, which is targeted for release in 2027.

The strategy will focus on maintaining Singapore’s position as a major hub port, strengthening its role as an International Maritime Centre, advancing maritime innovation and developing a workforce equipped for the industry’s changing requirements.

Maritime Strategy Responds to Industry Changes

Singapore’s maritime sector is operating in an environment shaped by changing global trade patterns, rapid technological development and the transition towards cleaner energy.

MPA said these shifts have created a need to refresh Singapore’s longer-term maritime strategy to support continued growth for maritime businesses and employment opportunities for Singaporeans.

The new master plan is expected to provide direction for how Singapore develops its maritime ecosystem as shipping and port operations become increasingly digital, connected and technology-driven.

AI and Maritime Innovation Take Priority

Artificial intelligence and broader maritime innovation will form an important part of the plan.

Digital technologies are becoming increasingly relevant across shipping, port operations and maritime services as companies look to improve efficiency, operational visibility and competitiveness.

The new strategy will examine how Singapore can continue supporting maritime innovation while strengthening its position as a centre for maritime technology and business.

Alongside technology adoption, Singapore will continue focusing on its role as a key node within global shipping and logistics networks.

Maintaining the competitiveness of its port and maritime services will remain central as regional ports expand capacity and shipping patterns continue to evolve.

Industry Consultations Underway

MPA began consultations for the Maritime Singapore Master Plan in March 2026 and has received feedback from more than 50 stakeholder groups, including maritime companies and unions.

The authority has also established a Local Industry Panel comprising more than 20 maritime business leaders to contribute industry perspectives to the development of the strategy.

These consultations are intended to ensure the master plan reflects the operational requirements and challenges faced by companies across Singapore’s maritime ecosystem.

Building a Future-Ready Maritime Workforce

Workforce development is another major focus.

Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport Murali Pillai participated in a focus group involving students, parents, educators, career counsellors and community groups to discuss career opportunities in the maritime sector.

MPA is conducting two focus groups on maritime careers to better understand what influences career choices and how maritime roles can be made more attractive.

As technologies such as AI become more widely adopted, the industry will increasingly require workers with capabilities spanning maritime operations, digital systems and emerging technologies.

Developing this talent pipeline will be an important part of maintaining Singapore’s long-term maritime competitiveness.

Public Feedback Continues

Public engagement on the master plan has also been underway since May.

Initiatives include the Maritime Singapore Master Plan Public Survey, the Maritime Singapore in 2050 AI Image Contest and the Voyage Beyond: Reimagining Maritime Singapore travelling exhibition.

Members of the public can provide feedback on the master plan until 30 September 2026.

The consultation process will help shape Singapore’s maritime priorities before the final strategy is released in 2027.

Preparing Singapore’s Maritime Sector for the Next Phase

The upcoming Maritime Singapore Master Plan reflects Singapore’s effort to prepare its maritime sector for changes in technology, trade and energy.

By focusing on port competitiveness, maritime innovation, AI adoption and workforce development, the plan aims to strengthen Singapore’s position within the global maritime industry while preparing companies and workers for the sector’s next phase of development.