India and Singapore have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to collaborate on maritime digitization and decarbonization under the Green Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC). The agreement aims to accelerate the adoption of digital solutions and low-emission technologies in the maritime sector. The partnership was formalized during Singapore Maritime Week, which is being attended by global industry leaders.
India and Singapore have officially entered into an agreement to collaborate on maritime digitization and decarbonization efforts. The two nations signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) on March 25, 2025, under the Green Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC), which aims to enhance sustainable shipping practices. This agreement was signed during Singapore Maritime Week, a global event bringing together industry leaders to discuss advancements in the maritime sector.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MOPSW) of India and the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) of Singapore jointly announced the initiative. The LOI was signed by Teo Ing Dih, Chief Executive of MPA Singapore, and R. Laxmanan, Joint Secretary of MOPSW India. Singapore’s Senior Minister of Transport and Environment, Dr. Amy Khor, and India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, were present at the signing ceremony.
Advancing Maritime Sustainability
The Green Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC) is designed to promote digitalization and green technologies in maritime operations. The collaboration will focus on accelerating the adoption of digital solutions and near-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emission technologies. The agreement also includes identifying key stakeholders who can contribute to these initiatives and formalizing their cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The partnership aligns with global efforts to make the shipping industry more sustainable. By leveraging digital advancements, India and Singapore aim to streamline maritime operations, improve efficiency, and reduce carbon emissions. This initiative also strengthens bilateral relations and contributes to the global push for environmentally friendly shipping.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
Speaking at the event, Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized that the collaboration will reinforce long-term ties between India and Singapore. “Our participation in Singapore Maritime Week with a high-level delegation reflects our commitment to strengthening cooperation in the maritime sector. This partnership will pave the way for a sustainable and technologically advanced shipping industry.”
Singapore Maritime Week, taking place from March 24 to 28, 2025, is a major event in the global shipping calendar. It is expected to host over 20,000 delegates and exhibitors, showcasing cutting-edge advancements in maritime technology and sustainability. The India-Singapore LOI signing is a key highlight of the event, signifying a step forward in international cooperation on maritime digitalization and decarbonization.
As global shipping faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, collaborations like the India-Singapore GDSC agreement play a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry. This initiative is expected to set a precedent for other nations to enhance their maritime strategies with a focus on green technology and digital transformation.
