India and Singapore to explore green digital shipping corridor for global trade

India’s green fuel and digital initiatives are set to enter global trade through Singapore’s marine and shipping industry, one of the world’s largest hubs for bunker fuel, supplying over 55 million tonnes annually to internationally operating vessels, according to reports.

Representational image. Singapore-flagged container ship ONE OLYMPUS. Photo: sgpc.gov.sg

The two nations are exploring a “Green Digital Shipping Corridor” aimed at linking various international ports and marine industries, paving the way for India’s green fuel, green hydrogen, and ammonia exports to play a crucial role in the global maritime sector.

India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, is leading the charge for this collaboration, with a focus on enhancing green shipping and digitising India’s ports to make the nation a global maritime leader.

Sonowal, accompanied by key representatives from Indian ports, shipyards, and maritime institutions, will visit Singapore next week to solidify the partnership with local industries.

This visit coincides with the Singapore Maritime Week, taking place from March 24-28, where industry experts will gather to explore new opportunities in shipping and port modernization.

Singapore, with its strategic location and robust maritime infrastructure, is keen to support the growing industrialisation of the sector, including shipyard upgrades and the development of shipping capacity. The collaboration is expected to benefit both countries, positioning India as a leader in green fuel exports and helping Singapore maintain its status as a global maritime hub.