- Port of Singapore crossed the 3 billion gross tonnage mark in ship arrivals on Monday (Dec 25)
- Acting Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat attributes the country’s milestone to its smooth collaboration between unions, industry, and government.
- The port is adopting solutions such as digitalPORT@SG to get real-time data about vessels.
Singapore’s Port has emerged as a global maritime powerhouse, achieving a remarkable milestone on December 25, 2023. The arrival of the container ship ONE OLYMPUS not only signified a significant moment for the port but also propelled its annual vessel arrival tonnage to an unprecedented 3 billion gross tonnage (GT).
Setting the Record
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) proudly announced the record-breaking accomplishment, highlighting the substantial increase from the previous year’s 2.83 billion GT. This achievement positions Singapore’s Port as a key player in the global shipping industry, showcasing consistent growth since reaching 1 billion GT in 2004 and 2 billion GT in 2011.
Tripartite Success and Acknowledgments
Acting Minister for Transport, Chee Hong Tat, attributed this historic milestone to Singapore’s unique collaboration between unions, industry, and government. The trusted tripartite ecosystem, he emphasized, sets Singapore apart from others attempting to replicate its success. “Other people may try to copy our hardware and infrastructure, they may even try to follow our technologies and operating systems … But many find it difficult to replicate our trusted tripartite ecosystem in Singapore,” he said. During a ceremony, Minister Chee expressed gratitude to Ocean Network Express (ONE), the Japanese shipping company, for the pivotal role played by its Singapore-flagged container ship, ONE OLYMPUS, in pushing Singapore over the 3 billion GT threshold.
Navigating Challenges and Future Plans
Despite challenges, including the maritime industry’s downturn in 2016 and supply chain disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic, Minister Chee highlighted the port’s resilience. He acknowledged the current global landscape, marked by geopolitical tensions and conflicts. In response, Singapore’s Port is strategically navigating these challenges and pushing ahead with development plans, including the construction of the next-generation container port at Tuas.
The port is also adopting innovative solutions, such as the digitalPORT@SG platform implemented by MPA in October. This digital platform provides real-time data on vessel and port resources, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and generate cost and time savings. Minister Chee emphasized that Singapore’s commitment to connectivity, efficiency, and reliability positions it to play a pivotal role as a catch-up port, working closely with major shipping lines to facilitate the global flow of goods.
As Singapore’s Port looks ahead, it remains a beacon of success in the maritime world, breaking records and navigating challenges with strategic planning and innovative solutions.
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Source: CNA
