Ports, which handle more than 80% of global trade by volume, are under increasing pressure to decarbonise while maintaining efficiency and keeping international supply chains running smoothly. This dual challenge is becoming more urgent as global trade faces renewed instability and disruptions across key maritime chokepoints.
Recent tensions in strategic routes such as the Strait of Hormuz have exposed the vulnerabilities of fossil fuel-dependent shipping systems. Fluctuations in energy prices and interruptions to shipping lanes are strengthening the global push toward alternative fuels, greener technologies, and more resilient port infrastructure.
In response, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore have launched a new partnership aimed at accelerating the transition to more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive maritime transport systems. The initiative combines Singapore’s advanced port operations with UNCTAD’s global development expertise to support practical solutions for the shipping sector.
The partnership will focus on scaling cleaner fuel adoption, expanding digital innovation, and improving operational efficiency across ports and shipping networks. It also aims to promote knowledge-sharing in sustainable finance, workforce development, and technology deployment, ensuring that solutions can be adapted to different national and regional contexts.
A key priority of the initiative is ensuring that developing countries are not left behind in the maritime transition. Many of these economies rely heavily on maritime trade but face challenges in accessing financing, technology, and skilled labour. The programme will therefore provide training, advisory support, and institutional capacity-building to strengthen their participation in global trade systems.
By building on UNCTAD’s ongoing work with port communities, the partnership also seeks to improve connectivity, enhance port performance, and increase resilience against future disruptions. These efforts are intended to support more stable and inclusive global supply chains in an increasingly uncertain trade environment.
The initiative will further contribute to discussions at the 2nd UN Global Supply Chain Forum in 2026, where global policymakers and industry leaders will focus on shaping the future of trade logistics, sustainability, and supply chain resilience.
