MPA and BV to promote adoption of zero and near-zero GHG emission bunker fuels

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Friday (6 June) said it has renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bureau Veritas (BV) to deepen collaboration in maritime digitalisation, decarbonisation, and talent development. 

The MoU was signed by MPA Chief Executive, Mr Teo Eng Dih, and BV Group CEO, Ms Hinda Gharbi. This renewal builds on the successful collaboration since 2022. 

As part of the renewed MoU, MPA and BV will explore the establishment of a BV global innovation hub in Singapore. 

The hub will focus on research and application of emerging technologies with multi-industry impact. These include cybersecurity standards and guidelines, and the design and integration of new battery technologies and fuel cell systems.

Both parties will also work together on innovative digital and decarbonisation solutions. These include smart ship systems, AI technologies to enhance vessel inspection, and the use of robotics for in-water applications. Additionally, MPA and BV will promote the adoption of zero and near-zero GHG emission fuels, electrification and wind-assisted propulsion. These initiatives aim to strengthen Singapore’s MarineTech ecosystem. 

To support maritime workforce development, BV will continue its participation in industry manpower programmes such as the MPA Global Internship Award, MaritimeONE Internship and Scholarship Programmes, and the Career Conversion Programme. These efforts aim to attract and nurture maritime talent to support BV’s growth in Singapore, which will contribute to the broader maritime talent based here. 

Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, MPA, said, “Singapore has a strong innovation ecosystem that brings together researchers, start-up entrepreneurs and tech companies to collaborate with class societies such as BV to deploy AI, autonomy, and cybersecurity.

“We are pleased to partner Bureau Veritas, reaffirming our shared commitment to collaborate on maritime talent development and advancement in digitalisation, innovation, and decarbonisation in the maritime sector.” 

Ms Hinda Gharbi, Group CEO of BV, said, “This renewed collaboration with MPA reflects our continued commitment to support the maritime industry’s priorities in digitalisation, decarbonisation, and talent development. 

“By combining MPA’s leadership in maritime innovation with Bureau Veritas’s extensive global experience and technical expertise, we aim to contribute to the advancement of sustainable and resilient solutions. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will continue to have on the industry’s future.

Photo credit: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Published: 9 June, 2025