UN Trade and Development (Unctad) and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) have partnered to accelerate maritime decarbonization and digitalization without compromising trade efficiency.
Unctad and MPA signed the agreement on April 22, 2026. This collaboration scales technical solutions for ports, which handle 80 percent of global trade volume. The initiative targets high energy intensity and the industry’s reliance on fossil fuels.
The partnership deploys cleaner fuels and digital technologies across global shipping networks. Singapore serves as the testbed for these innovations as a primary maritime hub, while Unctad provides the global reach and policy expertise to export these solutions. This cooperation precedes the 2026 UN Global Supply Chain Forum.
The initiative prioritizes developing countries to prevent a widening technological gap. Partners will deliver training, advisory services, and institutional strengthening to port communities. These efforts improve connectivity and enhance preparedness for supply chain disruptions. The program facilitates knowledge-sharing in sustainable finance and digital innovation to ensure the transition remains inclusive for smaller economies.
The organizations aim to build resilience in a volatile trade environment. Efforts include optimizing port performance through data-driven digital tools. The partnership also explores hydrogen and ammonia as alternative maritime fuels to support a sustainable global transport system.
“This partnership brings together Singapore’s operational excellence and Unctad’s global development expertise,” said Pedro Manuel Moreno, acting secretary-general of Unctad. “It will help accelerate a maritime transition that is not only greener and more efficient, but also resilient and inclusive.”
The agreement establishes a framework for long-term maritime cooperation, ensuring the transition to green energy benefits the entire global supply chain.
