MPA calls on ports to support LNG bunkering

In his speech at the third Busan International Port Conference (BIPC) in South Korea, Mr Tan focused on LNG and the global move towards higher environmental standards and cleaner shipping.

“Singapore is taking steps to prepare itself to be a LNG bunker-ready port when LNG becomes more viable as an alternate fuel,” said Mr Tan.

“MPA alone is unable to future-proof Singapore’s port developments, and instead, requires strong collaboration with an extensive network of stakeholders to generate new ideas as well as to support our drive for sustainable development.”

Mr Tan argued in his speech, Environmental Sustainability for International Shipping, that Asia has great potential to offer LNG bunkering but the MPA needs more support in order to do so.

LNG has delivered reductions in SOx, NOx or CO2 emissions and currently 48 ports around the world are LNG bunkering ready or have plans to be in the near future.

Singapore hopes that promoting discussion and cooperation amongst global hub ports will provide more LNG bunkering for short sea and ocean going vessels.

Mr Tan concluded: “Governments, businesses and industry associations must also collaborate closely to ensure that the maritime transportation system will minimising pollution, maximising energy efficiency and ensuring resource conservation. By working together, we can shape the future of our global maritime economy.”