You are using an outdated browser For a better experience using this site, please upgrade to a modern web browser. Subscribe Get Daily Email Subscribe --> Contact Us Sign in Home News & Features Compliance Costs Bunker Prices Bunker Intelligence Asia/Pacific News Latest Features World Americas EMEA Asia/Pacific Home News & Features Asia / Pacific Singapore Introduces Bill to Give More Powers to MPA Singapore Introduces Bill to Give More Powers to MPA by Ship & Bunker News Team Wednesday October 7, 2026 Tweet Follow @shipandbunker The bill was introduced in parliament for first reading yesterday. File Image / Pixabay Singapore has introduced a bill that would give the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) more powers over port operations, cybersecurity and new technologies. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Amendment Bill was introduced for First Reading in Parliament, MPA said in a press release on Tuesday . The bill will update the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Act 1996 , which was introduced 30 years ago, to reflect changes in the maritime sector. These include the growing use of digital systems, remote operations and autonomous vessels. The proposed changes would give MPA a broader framework to license maritime services and allow it to issue directions on safety, efficiency, reliability, environmental performance and service quality. MPA would also have greater powers to deal with abandoned vessels, wrecks and other objects that could disrupt navigation or port operations. A new cybersecurity framework would allow MPA to designate Important Information Infrastructure and set requirements for protecting critical maritime systems. The bill also covers autonomous surface vessels, drones and artificial intelligence, giving MPA a legal basis to regulate their use. MPA’s powers to obtain information, carry out inspections and investigate possible breaches would also be strengthened. Parliament is expected to debate the bill at