(Commonwealth_ Singapore is set to become the first port in the world to fully digitalize its bunkering operations, eliminating paper bunker delivery notes entirely. This significant shift will take effect from April 1, 2025, when all bunker suppliers operating at Singapore’s port will be required to provide digital bunkering services and issue electronic bunker delivery notes (e-BDN). Dr. Amy Khor, Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Transport, made the announcement during her keynote address at the biennial Singapore International Bunkering Conference and Exhibition on October 9.
As the world’s largest bunkering port in terms of sales volume, Singapore plays a critical role in the global marine fuel market. In 2023, the city-state sold nearly 52 million tonnes of marine fuels, cementing its position as a key hub for international shipping and maritime trade. Singapore’s move to digitalize its bunkering process is expected to enhance the efficiency and transparency of its operations, reinforcing the port’s competitive edge.
The decision to transition to fully digital bunkering follows successful pilot programs with several local fuel suppliers over the past year. These pilots tested the feasibility of digital bunkering services and provided valuable insights into the potential benefits of eliminating paper-based documentation. Dr. Khor emphasized that the switch to e-BDNs will streamline administrative procedures and reduce the risk of errors or fraud associated with paper records.
To support this shift, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) will establish a centralized e-BDN record verification facility. This facility will enable the MPA to verify electronic bunker delivery notes against the sent information, guaranteeing the accuracy and consistency of the data. This move aligns with Singapore’s broader efforts to digitize and modernize its maritime infrastructure.
In addition to the e-BDN initiative, Enterprise Singapore, through the Singapore Standards Council (SSC), will introduce a new standard, the Singapore Standard (SS) 709 Specification for Digital Bunkering Supply Chain Documentation. This standard aims to ensure data consistency and interoperability between digital systems, making it easier for stakeholders in the bunkering supply chain to exchange information. By establishing these guidelines, the SSC will help facilitate smoother and more efficient transactions, fostering greater trust and collaboration between suppliers, ship owners, and regulatory authorities.
Singapore is introducing several technological advancements, including the digital bunkering initiative, to enhance its maritime sector. As part of its ongoing efforts to leverage digital innovation, MPA will also roll out two artificial intelligence (AI)-based applications: DocuMind and DocuMatch. These applications will expedite and streamline the process of renewing ship certificates for vessels registered in Singapore. These new AI tools will reduce the previously three-day process of renewing a ship’s certificates to just a few minutes. This exemplifies how AI can enhance operational efficiency and alleviate administrative burdens in the maritime sector.
These initiatives represent a key milestone in Singapore’s efforts to strengthen its position as a global maritime hub. The city-state has been at the forefront of maritime innovation for several years. In 2017, Singapore became the first port in the world to adopt mass flow metering technology to verify the volume of delivered bunkers. This technology helps ensure accurate and transparent measurement of fuel deliveries, further enhancing the integrity of the bunkering process. The digital bunkering initiative builds on this commitment to improving the transparency, efficiency, and sustainability of Singapore’s maritime operations. Singapore’s push for digitalization in bunkering is part of a broader trend in the maritime industry to adopt technology-driven solutions that increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact. By embracing digital tools, Singapore aims to maintain its leadership in the global maritime sector, improve operational efficiency, and set
