MPA to cut standard ship-registration processing to minutes

An AI-supported system will be introduced in the first half of 2027.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) will launch a new ship-registration system in the first half of 2027 that could reduce the processing time for standard applications from as long as three working days to a few minutes.

The system will integrate the registration process from application submission to certificate issuance. It will also use artificial intelligence to support the vetting and processing of applications.

Shipowners and agents will receive greater visibility over their application status, with certificates issued upon completion of the process.

MPA plans to invite industry participants to test the system in the coming months and provide feedback before its launch.

The initiative was announced as the Singapore Registry of Ships marked 60 years since its establishment in 1966.

The registry has grown to more than 4,400 vessels. Its fleet reached a record 137 million gross tonnage as of 31 December 2025, representing a 27% increase from the previous year.

This made Singapore the world’s fourth-largest ship registry. Its average vessel age of approximately 11 years also made it the youngest fleet among the 10 largest registries.

The fleet is beginning to reflect the shipping sector’s transition towards alternative fuels. Eight methanol-fuelled vessels have been registered since 2020, whilst the registry expects to add its first ammonia dual-fuelled vessel in November 2026.

A record 74 vessels from 28 companies qualified for MPA’s Green Ship Programme in 2026 after adopting technologies or operating practices that exceeded prevailing environmental requirements.

MPA is also strengthening Singapore’s maritime talent pipeline. Thirteen local seafarers were recognised under the Sail Milestone Achievement Programme at the registry’s anniversary forum.

Since its introduction in 2022, the programme has supported more than 100 local seafarers in progressing towards higher levels of shipboard competency.

Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport Murali Pillai said continued cooperation between the government, industry and unions would be important as the registry adapts to the maritime sector’s digital and green transition.