Sea Transport
Overview
Your online delivery package probably travelled by sea to reach you. Sea transport moves 80% of world trade, and Singapore's position as the busiest container hub creates exciting career opportunities.
About industry
Sea transport moves cargo and goods across oceans through shipping operations, port management, and maritime services. You could work with shipping companies, port operations, bunkering services, or maritime service providers covering finance, insurance, broking, surveying, engineering, and legal services. Global trade depends on this crucial industry to ship products between countries, with Singapore serving as a vital hub connecting businesses and consumers worldwide.
Industry facts
01
More than 80% of world trade moves by sea, making sea transport a major driving force of the global economy.
02
Singapore hosts over 150 international shipping groups and serves as the world's busiest transhipment hub by container throughput.
03
The Port of Singapore handled 37.2 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units and 626.2 million tonnes of cargo in 2019.
Next Generation Port Development
The Next Generation Port development in Tuas remains on track, with completion planned for the 2040s. When complete, Tuas Port will be one of the world's largest and most technologically advanced container ports, using Next Generation Vessel Traffic Management Systems, Automated Guided Vehicles, and Just-in-Time arrival to improve safety and efficiency. This creates opportunities for those skilled in advanced port technologies and automated systems.
Digitalisation and Maritime Innovation
Digitalisation is changing maritime commerce and operations, with companies taking to new technologies for competitive services. Singapore's hub status has developed a maritime innovation ecosystem with diverse talents, R&D, startups, and technology communities. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore supports digitalisation initiatives, creating career paths in maritime technology and digital transformation.
Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning
As industry change quickens, lifelong learning is essential for the sea transport workforce to address future challenges. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore works with education institutes to support training and development for individuals and maritime companies. There will be ongoing learning opportunities to stay equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.
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