UN Trade and Development and Singapore are strengthening their cooperation to accelerate the transition to greener and more resilient maritime systems.
Ports are essential to global trade, handling over 80% of goods by volume. But, as pressure for decarbonization intensifies, they face a complex challenge: reducing emissions while maintaining the fluidity and competitiveness of trade.
This challenge becomes all the more pressing as global supply chains face renewed uncertainty.
Recent tensions affecting strategic maritime chokepoints, including the Strait of Hormuz , have highlighted the risks of continued reliance on fossil fuels in global shipping. Volatility in energy markets and disruptions to shipping routes are increasing the demand for alternative fuels and more resilient port infrastructure.
In this context, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Singapore Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) have launched a new partnership to support the transition to more sustainable, resilient and inclusive maritime transport systems.
« This partnership brings together Singapore’s operational excellence and UNCTAD’s global development expertise, » said Pedro Manuel Moreno, UNCTAD Acting Assistant Secretary-General.
« It will help accelerate a maritime transition that is not only greener and more efficient, but also more resilient and inclusive – while participating in global discussions at the UN Global Forum on Supply Chains 2026. »
Developing solutions adapted to a changing maritime sector
This collaboration reflects a shared desire to promote concrete and scalable solutions to support the transformation of global maritime transport and port operations.
Singapore – one of the world’s most connected and efficient port hubs – serves as a platform for testing and deploying innovations in areas such as clean fuels and digital technologies. UNCTAD brings its global reach, policy expertise, and direct support to developing countries to this role.
Under this agreement, the partners will encourage the adoption of alternative fuels and digital solutions within ports and maritime networks. Efforts will focus on approaches adaptable to national contexts, as well as knowledge sharing in sustainable finance, digital innovation, and skills development.
Supporting developing countries and strengthening resilience
Ensuring that the maritime transition is inclusive is one of the main priorities of the partnership.
Many developing countries, which are heavily dependent on maritime trade, often face obstacles in the areas of financing, technology, and skills. The initiative will support them through training, advisory services, and institutional strengthening.
Building on UNCTAD’s long-standing work with port communities , the partnership aims to improve port performance, enhance connectivity and increase preparedness for disruptions – an increasingly crucial objective in a more unstable global trading environment.
The initiative will also contribute to preparations for the 2nd UN Global Supply Chain Forum scheduled for late 2026, where policymakers, industry leaders and international organizations will address the future of trade logistics and resilience.
source : unctad
