UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) have officially launched a new partnership that aims to support the transition toward more sustainable, resilient and inclusive maritime transport systems.
The collaboration seeks to reflect a shared focus on practical, scalable solutions that support the transformation of global shipping and port operations.
Under the agreement; both partners will promote the adoption of alternative fuels and digital solutions across both ports and shipping networks.
Efforts will focus on approaches that can be adapted to suit different national contexts, alongside knowledge-sharing in sustainable finance, digital innovation and workforce development.
A central priority of the partnership is ensuring that the maritime transition is inclusive; with support provided for developing countries that rely heavily on maritime trade that also face constraints in financing, technology and skills.
The initiative will aim to contribute to preparations for the 2nd UN Global Supply Chain Forum taking place in late 2026, where policymakers, industry leaders and international organisations will address the future of trade logistics and resilience, with the partnership set to build on UNCTAD’s long-standing work with port communities and improve port performance, strengthen connectivity and enhance preparedness for disruptions.
Pedro Manuel Moreno, Acting Secretary-General of UNCTAD, said:This partnership brings together Singapore’s operational excellence and UNCTAD’s global development expertise.
It will help accelerate a maritime transition that is not only greener and more efficient, but also resilient and inclusive – while contributing to global discussions at the UN Global Supply Chain Forum 2026.
