Singapore to launch AI-assisted ship registration system as registry marks 60 years

The Singapore Registry of Ships (SRS) is set to expand its digital capabilities as it marks 60 years since its establishment in 1966, with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) preparing to introduce an AI-assisted ship registration system in 2027.

Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport Murali Pillai outlined the registry’s digitalisation plans at the SRS Forum on October 2, 2026, which brought together industry and union representatives. He highlighted the role of continued industry partnerships as Singapore’s maritime sector adapts to digitalisation and the transition towards alternative fuels.

New digital registration system planned for 2027

MPA will launch a new ship registration system in the first half of 2027. The platform will integrate the registration process from application submission through certificate issuance and use artificial intelligence to support the vetting and processing of applications.

For standard applications, processing time is expected to fall from as long as three working days to a few minutes, with certificates issued once processing is completed.

Shipowners and ship agents will also have greater visibility of their application status. MPA plans to invite industry stakeholders to participate in pilot trials of the system in the coming months.

Singapore’s registered fleet reaches record tonnage

The SRS has grown to more than 4,400 vessels. As of December 31, 2025, the registry reached a record 137 million gross tonnes (GT), representing a 27% increase from the previous year and making Singapore the world’s fourth-largest ship registry.

The average age of vessels registered with the SRS is around 11 years, the youngest among the world’s 10 largest registries, according to Clarksons Shipping statistics.

Singapore also continues to rank among the leading flags under the Tokyo and Paris Memoranda of Understanding on Port State Control. The registry qualifies for the US Coast Guard’s QUALSHIP 21 programme.

Registry expands alternative-fuel fleet

Eight methanol-fuelled vessels have been registered with the SRS since 2020. The registry expects to register its first ammonia dual-fuel vessel next month.

Meanwhile, 74 vessels operated by 28 companies qualified for MPA’s Green Ship Programme this year, marking a record number of participating vessels. The programme recognises vessels adopting solutions that exceed prevailing environmental requirements.

Seaspan Corporation was recognised for contributing the highest net tonnage to the SRS during 2025/2026.

SailMAP recognises 13 local seafarers

The SRS Forum also recognised 13 local seafarers under the Sail Milestone Achievement Programme (SailMAP).

Since its launch in 2022, the programme has supported more than 100 local seafarers in progressing towards higher levels of shipboard competency.