Singapore is a top port in the global market, ahead of London and Shanghai.

Transshipment at the Port of Singapore Source: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore,  Graphic: Straits Times Graphics

By Marek Grzybowski

The Port of Singapore Authority has achieved the top position for the 12th consecutive year. It was recognized as the world’s best port according to the Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index. In 2025, Singapore scored 99.5 out of 100, ahead of London, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. It is emphasized that Singapore’s success stems from its strategic location, strong international market position, and a comprehensive and complementary system of professional services provided by maritime transport operators.

“Singapore maintained its position as a leading global maritime hub in 2024, achieving its twelfth consecutive first place in the ranking,” reports the Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index (ISCDI) report published on July 11.

It noted that despite “persistent tensions in the global supply chain and changes in trade patterns, the Port of Singapore recorded moderate growth in all its key performance indicators.

Port of Singapore Statistics, source: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

Record-breaking statistics

Port statistics show that incoming ship tonnage in 2024 increased by 0.6% compared to 2023, reaching 3.11 billion gross tons (GT). This compares with 3.09 billion GT received at Singapore’s terminals in 2023. Bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers dominated the quays, accounting for approximately one-third of incoming ship tonnage.

Singapore also handles a significant number of specialized and other vessels. Special-purpose vessels, as well as ferries and cruise ships, accounted for the remainder. This establishes Singapore’s profile as a universal port.

Cargo throughput at Singapore’s terminals increased by 5.2%, from 592.01 million tons in 2023 to 622.67 million tons in 2024. Container throughput exceeded 40 million TEU for the first time. Cargo throughput at PSA Singapore and Jurong Port terminals also increased by 5.4% to 41.12 million TEU. In 2023, container terminal cranes moved 39 million TEU between ships and quays.

Baltic Hub Joins the PSA Singapore Family

This result was also supported by the transshipment of Baltic Hub, in which PSA Singapore is a shareholder. Baltic Hub recently launched Terminal T3, increasing its transshipment capacity by 1.5 million TEU. This increased the overall transshipment capacity of Baltic Hub to 4.5 million TEU.

As a reminder, from November 25th to 27th, representatives of Baltic Hub visited the PSA International headquarters in Singapore. The purpose of the visit was to “share experiences and discuss key issues related to innovation in the port industry with partners from the group,” according to Baltic Hub. The visit was attended by Charles Baker, CEO of Baltic Hub, Anna Misztal, Director of Project and Program Management, Magdalena Jagła, Head of PR & Communications, and Monika Bielecka, Commercial Manager.

Baltic Hub reported that “During the visit, the delegation had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the latest solutions implemented at PSA, such as digital port management systems and decarbonization strategies in maritime logistics. Meetings included presentations of PSA Marine’s operations, a visit to the Mission Command Centre, and a briefing on advanced operations at Tuas Port – one of the most innovative ports in the world.”

Port of Singapore Statistics, source: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

Singapore 99.5 out of 100

The ISCDI report was released on Friday (July 11) and awarded Singapore a near-perfect score of 99.5 out of 100, marking its top ranking since the index’s inception. Following the release of the ISCDI report, Ang Wee Keong, CEO of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, said: “We thank our industry partners, the academic and business communities, and trade unions who have played a crucial role in Singapore’s journey to becoming a leading international maritime center and global port hub,” reports Derryn Wong, correspondent for Business Time International.

London ranked second in the ISCDI rankings with a score of 81.02, followed by Shanghai (81.01), Hong Kong (80.77), and Dubai (75.97). The index was developed in collaboration with the Chinese news agency Xinhua and the Baltic Exchange. It comprises a total of 43 parameters related to the handling of ships and other maritime participants in the trade of goods at ports. Port indicators constitute 20% of the score. This component assesses transshipment capacity and its efficiency. The number of cranes, the length of the container quay, and the available drafts at the port’s quays are also important.

The quality of services provided to businesses constitutes half of the score. This component assesses the availability and quality of professional companies supporting the maritime sector. It takes into account the activities of agency companies, the efficiency of ship management, financial management of ships, the quality of insurance and legal services, and the realities of insurance. The assessment also takes into account general factors of the business environment. This component accounts for 30% of the score. Analysis includes customs tariffs, the advancement and quality of administrative services using IT tools, and the overall efficiency of logistics at the port.  Port of Singapore Statistics for June 2025. Source: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

Operational Efficiency a Priority
The Port of Singapore assessment emphasized that “Operational efficiency remained a priority as the port managed congestion caused by disruptions in the Red Sea in mid-2024.” The Port Authority emphasized the full cooperation of the Port Authority with trade unions and other organizations to ensure good service to the port’s customers.

In 2024, the Port of Singapore Authority (MPA), PSA Singapore, and trade unions implemented measures that improved service to ships and Singapore’s customers. Among other things, the launch of new berths at Tuas Port, the reactivation of yard space at Keppel Terminal, an increase in the workforce, the optimization of feeder line schedules, and the permitting of overnight towing of container barges at Pasir Panjang Terminal were all positively assessed.

Thanks to these measures, most container ships completed both transshipment and bunkering within a single day. This helped minimize congestion in the port and outer port. It noted that “Infrastructure development at the new Tuas Port continues. By the end of 2024, 11 berths were operational, with seven more planned for 2027. In November 2024, Evergreen Marine Corporation and PSA Singapore established a joint venture to secure the terminal’s long-term operation for Evergreen’s growing fleet of container ships.”

It also noted that “Bunkering operations in Singapore saw growth in 2024, with total bunker fuel sales increasing by 6% to 54.92 million tonnes, compared to 51.82 million tonnes in 2023.” The Port Authority of Singapore’s swift response to the rapid increase in demand for marine fuel following the extension of the Asia-Europe route around the Cape of Good Hope was praised.

The port also responded to increased demand for various fuel types. Sales of alternative fuels more than doubled to 1.34 million tons. Biofuel blends increased from 520,000 tons to 880,000 tons, and LNG from 110,000 tons to 460,000 tons. Demand for methanol bunkering was weak, reaching 1,626 tons. A bunkered ammonia trial (9.74 tons) was also conducted.

IT-Active Management

This leadership position is due to the Port Authority’s continued proactive approach. In 2024, Singapore took steps to ensure its position as a leading maritime hub by introducing new regulatory measures aimed at reducing operating costs. The MPA announced plans to reduce the annual frequency of mass flow meter verifications from twice a year to once a year. This action was taken in accordance with the updated SS648:2024 standards. It is emphasized that this will save the industry an estimated 300,000 Singapore dollars annually. Risk analyses are continuing to ensure the supply of high-quality marine fuel to ships while maintaining safety and environmental standards.

Last year, MPA introduced advanced IT and cybersecurity systems. This improved port operations and significantly supported stakeholders. In April 2024, MPA announced the launch of the Maritime Testbed for Ship Operational Technology (MariOT) at the iTrust SUTD Center. MariOT is an industrial-grade simulator. It replicates propulsion, machinery, energy, and navigation systems. The platform is designed for cybersecurity training and testing solutions in a controlled environment. The inaugural MariOT exercise took place in March 2025.

The management’s actions are aimed at strengthening the resilience of port and ship operating systems to threats, primarily cyber threats. Further IT initiatives include the implementation of electronic fuel delivery documents (launched in 2024) to streamline fuel reporting and the further enhancement of DigitalPORT@SG™, a comprehensive portal for handling transactions related to maritime regulations and port services.

IT startups commissioned by the Port of Singapore, source: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

Through these platforms, shipping lines and agents can make reservations, submit declarations, and track applications online, reducing administrative costs and shortening turnaround times. The Port of Singapore Authority’s support in implementing innovation by supporting startups is highlighted. PIER71™, implemented several years ago, has led to an increase in the number of startups from 17 in 2018 to over 140 by the end of 2024, and these companies have secured over SGD 80 million in investments, including SGD 17 million in 2024 alone. Let’s learn from the best.