Abu dhabi: UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) have launched a new partnership to accelerate the transition towards more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive global maritime transport.
According to Emirates News Agency, UNCTAD highlighted the critical role that ports play in global trade and economic development, as they handle over 80 percent of world trade by volume. However, these ports are also energy-intensive and rely heavily on fossil fuels. As the demand to decarbonise and modernise increases, nations face the dual challenge of reducing emissions while maintaining efficiency and competitiveness.
Pedro Manuel Moreno, Acting Secretary-General of UNCTAD, stated that this partnership combines Singapore's operational excellence with UNCTAD's global development expertise. The collaboration aims to facilitate a maritime transition that is greener, more efficient, resilient, and inclusive, while contributing to global discussions at the upcoming UN Global Supply Chain Forum 2026.
This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to shaping the future of maritime trade through practical and scalable solutions. Singapore, as one of the world's most connected and efficient ports, plays a crucial role in testing and scaling innovations. UNCTAD complements this with its global reach, policy expertise, and on-the-ground support to developing nations.
The agreement focuses on promoting cleaner fuels and digital technologies across ports and shipping networks. Efforts will emphasize solutions adaptable to different national contexts, and will include knowledge-sharing in sustainable finance, digital innovation, and workforce development-key enablers of a successful transition.
A significant aspect of the initiative is the support for developing countries, which includes training, advisory services, and institutional strengthening. Building on UNCTAD's established work with port communities, the partnership aims to improve performance, strengthen connectivity, and enhance preparedness for disruptions, which is an increasingly urgent priority in the current volatile global environment.
The initiative will also contribute to the preparations for the UN Global Supply Chain Forum scheduled for late 2026, where global stakeholders will discuss the future of trade logistics and resilience.