The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has inaugurated a new ICS Representative Office in Singapore.

The new ICS office, which was opened with the support of the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), is situated in the central business district of Singapore.

Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) welcomed the announcement of the new ICS presence.

"We welcome the International Chamber of Shipping's decision to establish its Singapore office, joining other key international organisations with a regional base here," said Ang Wee Keong, chief executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA).

"ICS's presence will strengthen collaboration on priorities such as decarbonisation, digital transformation, and safety standards. These are key areas shaping the future of international shipping and where closer cooperation between industry and regulators can drive impactful solutions for the greater good of the global maritime sector," he added.

Thomas A. Kazakos, secretary general of the ICS, said the strategic opening of the ICS office in Singapore underlines the organization's commitment to working closely with one of the most dynamic maritime centres in the world.

"Singapore continues to be at the forefront in areas such as bunkering, fuel innovation, digitalisation and decarbonisation, and we look forward to building even stronger partnerships with the industry and authorities here."

Kazakos noted the opening of the Singapore office as an "important milestone" for ICS as it deepens its ties across the Asia-Pacific region.

"We are confident that our increased presence and cooperation across this region will deliver real benefits to our members and to the wider global shipping community," he said.

The establishment of the Singapore office represents a significant step in ICS's ongoing mission to support the global shipping industry in the region, following the opening of the China Liaison Office with a presence in both Shanghai and the Hong Kong SAR.

In November, ICS will also be hosting a second Global Maritime Trade Summit in Hong Kong.

ICS noted that the Singapore office will serve as a regional hub, fostering collaboration on critical issues such as decarbonisation, safety, seafarer welfare and the adoption of new technologies.

Sunil Krishnakumar, general manager of ICS Singapore Branch, said: "It is an honour to take on this role at such a pivotal time for our industry. I look forward to working with our members, partners and stakeholders to ensure that ICS continues to make a positive impact in Singapore and across the region."

Teo Teng Seng, president of Singapore Shipping Association, noted the launch of the ICS Singapore Branch adds to the vibrancy of Singapore as an International Maritime Centre, joining other international maritime organisations based there.

"SSA is delighted to host and partner with one of the world's principal shipping organisations, to support our industry's standing in the global shipping community," Teo said.