Singapore's $100m maritime R&D roadmap set to drive industry innovation

The new roadmap will focus on autonomous ports, smart ships and energy systems.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) have launched the 2026 edition of the Singapore Maritime Technology & Research Roadmap during Singapore Maritime Week 2026.

The new plan outlines autonomous port operations, safe and efficient delivery of alternative energy, smart ships, and intelligent and integrated port services as priority areas.

MPA and SMI said more than $100m will be invested over the next five years to support research and development in these areas, building on over $500m allocated to maritime R&D in Singapore over the past 20 years.

The roadmap focuses on translating research into deployable solutions and identifies areas to improve productivity, strengthen resilience, and support innovation across the maritime sector, according to their joint media statement.

It also highlights the use of digital technologies, decarbonisation pathways, and integration across port and shipping operations, alongside constraints such as manpower and space.

Developed through consultations with industry and research stakeholders, including a 2025 workshop to identify priorities across different time horizons, the roadmap will be available as an e-book on the Singapore Maritime Institute’s website.

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