SMW 2025: PIL and ABS to partner on maritime operations and decarbonisation technologies

Singapore-based container operator Pacific International Lines (PIL) on Tuesday (25 March) said it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with classification society ABS at Singapore Maritime Week that establishes a framework to collaborate on projects related to maritime technology, sustainability and safety management systems.

As part of the overall strategic partnership, the MoU allows PIL and ABS to exchange technical knowledge and jointly explore innovative maritime technologies. The ABS Technology and Singapore Innovation Research Center will provide modeling and simulation to support PIL’s new vessel constructions and existing vessel retrofits.

ABS Sustainability specialists will work with PIL to develop an energy-efficiency strategy including techno-economic studies, and the implementation of practical decarbonisation measures that enhance environmental performance.

Safety is another key focus area of the agreement, with ABS providing guidance for Port State Control improvement and aligning safety standards with global best practices.

Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO, said: “We look forward to capitalising on our unique strengths and capabilities in maritime compliance and cutting-edge technologies to advance safety, emissions reduction and operational efficiency.”

Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL, said, “This MoU reinforces our commitment and supports our plans to future-proof our fleet. Partnering with ABS allows us to leverage world-class expertise to drive innovation, advance decarbonisation, and enhance safety management.”

“This long-term collaboration is a testament to our dedication to driving progress, ensuring that we stay ahead of regulatory changes while maintaining operational excellence and environmental responsibility.”

The MoU will enable PIL to advance the resilience and competitiveness of its fleet by exploring innovative solutions, fostering technical knowledge exchange, and assessing emerging maritime and decarbonisation technologies. PIL has recently taken delivery of four new LNG dual-fuel container vessels and has another 14 on order that can benefit from this partnership.

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Photo credit: Pacific International Lines
Published: 26 March, 2025