Wed 14 Jan 2026, 10:41 GMT | Updated: Wed 14 Jan 2026, 10:44 GMT

Singapore opens applications for additional LNG bunkering licences


Maritime and Port Authority sets 27 March deadline for operators seeking new supply permits.


Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore logo.
Singapore's Maritime and Port Authority is expanding its LNG bunkering licensing framework with new technical requirements and upgraded standards. Image credit: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has opened applications for additional licences to supply LNG as marine fuel in the Port of Singapore, with a deadline of 27 March 2026.

According to the authority, applicants must demonstrate capability for end-to-end LNG supply operations from sourcing to vessel delivery. Companies must own or charter at least one Singapore-registered LNG bunker vessel.

The licensing requirements include technical readiness to supply LNG fuels with lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, such as bio-methane and e-methane. Applicants must also implement measures to monitor and mitigate methane slip.

MPA and Enterprise Singapore plan to upgrade the existing Technical Reference for LNG Bunkering (TR56) to a Singapore Standard in the second quarter of 2026. The new standard will align with Singapore's broader bunkering standards framework.

The authority has published new Standards for Port Limit LNG Bunker Vessels alongside the licensing announcement.

MPA stated it will conduct industry briefings to help potential applicants understand the requirements. Application information is available on the authority's website, along with the vessel standards documentation.

The licensing expansion comes as Singapore maintains its position as the world's leading bunkering hub with marine fuel volumes of 56.77 million tonnes in 2025, representing a year-on-year rise of 3.4%. The move follows growing adoption of LNG as a marine fuel amid tightening emissions regulations in the shipping sector.



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