The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and international engineering group RINA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a technology demonstration centre in Singapore. The collaboration aims to strengthen maritime innovation, digitalisation, decarbonisation, and workforce development in support of a smarter and more sustainable sector.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has joined forces with RINA, a global engineering consultancy and certification group, to advance maritime innovation and sustainability. Both organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 5 November 2025 to establish a technology demonstration centre in Singapore that will focus on digitalisation, decarbonisation, and talent development.
The agreement was signed by Mr Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of MPA, and Mr Carlo Luzzatto, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of RINA. Under the MoU, the new centre will form part of RINA’s Open Innovation Hub in Singapore, serving as a collaborative platform where companies and researchers can co-develop and test solutions aimed at improving vessel efficiency, reducing emissions, and enhancing operational safety.
According to MPA, the centre will help advance the development of remote and smart maritime systems, offering integrated platforms to validate new technologies in real-world conditions. It will also strengthen collaboration with Singapore’s research institutions and start-ups, supporting projects involving smart ships, low-carbon marine fuels, battery systems, and digital port operations.
Mr Ang said, “The MoU with RINA marks an important step in strengthening Singapore’s maritime innovation ecosystem. By working with international partners like RINA, as well as our local industry and research community, we aim to accelerate the testing and adoption of emerging technologies that will make the sector smarter, safer, and more sustainable.”
Beyond technology, the partnership will also focus on nurturing talent. RINA will collaborate with MPA to contribute to industry manpower initiatives through training, internships, and scholarship programmes. These will equip future maritime professionals with the skills required for the digital and low-carbon transition.
RINA’s Chief Executive Officer and General Manager, Mr Carlo Luzzatto, said, “We are honoured to partner with MPA. Scaling innovation and advancing sustainability are key priorities in our growth strategy, and this partnership aligns perfectly with those goals. By embracing an open approach with Singapore’s ecosystem, we aim to create value for its maritime sector and beyond.”
The MPA-RINA partnership reflects Singapore’s continued effort to anchor itself as a global hub for maritime innovation, ensuring the industry remains competitive and forward-looking in an era of transformation.
