MPA-led work group advances emergency guidelines for alternative bunker fuels

Alternative bunker fuels and port-to-port data exchange were the highlights presented during the 11th Port Authorities Roundtable (PAR), according to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Wednesday (28 October).

The event brought together leaders from 22 port authorities in Perth, Australia, from 21 to 23 October 2026, hosted by Pilbara Ports.

At the roundtable, MPA presented updates on two PAR Work Groups: 

• Port-to-Port Data Exchange: Co-led by MPA and Port of Rotterdam Authority, with contributions from Busan Port Authority, Osaka Ports and Harbors Bureau, HAROPA PORT and Tanger Med Port Authority. The Work Group developed common vessel data elements and API specifications to facilitate data exchange and more predictable port calls.
• Safe Handling of Alternative Fuels: Led by MPA, with contributions from Port of Antwerp-Bruges, Port de Barcelona, Busan Port Authority, Port of London Authority and City of Yokohama Port and Harbor Bureau. The Work Group provided an update on emergency protocol guidelines being developed to strengthen ports’ preparedness for incidents involving alternative maritime fuels.

Under the theme “The Commitment of Global Ports to Cooperation, Coordination and Collective Action”, discussions focused on digital transformation and innovation, maritime decarbonisation, and strengthening port systems in uncertain times.

MPA’s Chief Executive, Mr Wee Keong Ang, shared Singapore’s perspectives on building resilient and future-ready port systems through long-term planning, early capability development, and stronger port-to-port coordination.

Initiated by MPA in 2015, PAR has grown into a trusted platform for port authorities to exchange experiences, identify shared interests and address common challenges. 

“As PAR enters its next decade, we look forward to strengthening these partnerships and translating discussions into practical action,” MPA said. 

Photo credit: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Published: 29 October, 2026