MPA CE: Maritime industry can turn geopolitical and supply chain challenges into opportunities

While the global economy and supply chains are facing a period of heightened uncertainty due to recent developments including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the maritime industry can turn these challenges into new opportunities. 

This was highlighted in the welcome remarks by Mr Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, at Asia Pacific Maritime (APM) 2026 on 25 March 2026. 

“We will turn these challenges that we are facing today into new opportunities to improve the sector’s resilience and chart our next phase of growth,” he said. 

“In particular, I believe that digitalisation, automation, and cleaner energy solutions will help strengthen supply chain resilience, improve operational efficiency and safety, and support the transition towards a more sustainable maritime future.”

He said the maritime sector has played an important role in globalisation and economic growth for decades, carrying over 80% of global trade by volume.

“The reliability of maritime transport has underpinned the stability of international trade and connected markets from different parts of the world. This has enabled countries, including small city-states like Singapore, to participate in global supply chains,” Ang elaborated.

However, the global economy and supply chains are facing a period of heightened uncertainty today. 

“We have seen how recent developments, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, have disrupted vital shipping routes and global energy supplies. This has underscored the fragility of the system that we depend on,” he said.

He added that as the current situation evolves, Singapore is working closely with other governments, agencies, and industry partners to ensure the resilience of maritime operations, both in its ports and other ports in Asia and the region.

“The flow of goods through Singapore has remained stable in recent weeks, and there is adequate bunker supply to meet the industry’s demand. We will continue to monitor the developments closely together with our partners,” Ang added.

Photo credit: RX Global
Published: 25 March, 2026