MPA and DNV Renew MoU to Advance Maritime Sustainability and Digitalisation

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and DNV have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation in maritime sustainability, digital innovation and workforce development.

MoU Signed at Singapore Norway Innovation Conference

The agreement was signed by Chin Yi Zhuan, Deputy Chief Executive (Industry & Corporate) at MPA, and Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria, Chief Operating Officer of DNV Maritime, during the Singapore Norway Innovation Conference 2025. The new MoU builds on earlier collaborations dating back to 2019 and 2022.

Focus on Zero-Emission Fuels, Smart Shipping and Test-Bedding

Under the renewed partnership, MPA and DNV will jointly support research, development and pilot projects across the maritime sector. Areas of cooperation include:

• Testing remote vessel operations with local maritime stakeholders
• Accelerating the adoption of zero- and near-zero-emission fuels
• Advancing decarbonisation technologies
• Enhancing the development of smart-ship systems

The collaboration will also involve tertiary institutions and research organisations.

Talent and Skills Development

Both organisations will work together on maritime talent initiatives, including the Maritime Innovation Committee, PIER71, and the Smart Port Challenge, to support skills development and attract new entrants to the sector.

Industry Statements

Mr Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of MPA, said:

“The renewal of this MoU underscores the shared commitment of MPA and DNV to co-create solutions that will shape the future of shipping. By combining our regulatory and industry development experience with DNV’s global technical expertise, we can accelerate innovation in smart and sustainable shipping, advance the use of low- and zero-carbon fuels, and strengthen talent and knowledge exchange across the maritime ecosystem. Together, we aim to build a more connected, capable, and future-ready maritime sector.”

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO Maritime at DNV, added: “By strengthening our collaboration with MPA through this MOU, we aim to accelerate the development and adoption of green and digital maritime solutions, while nurturing the next generation of maritime professionals. These joint efforts will help to further position Singapore as a centre of excellence for maritime research and innovation, supported by the MPA’s proactive and strategic vision and DNV’s technical and digital capabilities.”