Global Connectivity

Connectivity is the hallmark of the Singapore port.

Since 1986, Singapore has been the busiest port in the world in terms of shipping tonnage, with an annual average of 140,000 vessel calls. It is the focal point for some 200 shipping lines with links to more than 600 ports worldwide.

Global connectivity is the key to Singapore’s success as a world-leading hub for container transhipment, with over 37.3 million TEU handled in 2022.

The comprehensive port facilities and services are unsurpassed in terms of quality, efficiency, competitiveness and reliability; with the ability to handle over 2,000 containers per vessel, with a turnaround time of less than 12 hours.

Singapore has been crowned the “Best Global Seaport” for a second consecutive year and "Best Seaport in Asia" for the 34th time at the 2022 Asia Freight, Logistics and Supply Chain Awards (AFLAS).

Singapore’s excellent maritime infrastructure has also made it a regional cruise centre for holidaymakers. Annually, about one million visitors pass through the international cruise terminal. On average, Singapore attracts more than 30 international cruise ships every year, making about 400 port calls.

Global Transportation Network

Singapore is today at the centre of a global land, sea and air transportation network.

Singapore is at the centre of a globally interconnected land, sea and air transportation network that spans the globe. Since its founding as an Asian trading port over a century ago, Singapore has grown and prospered as the meeting place and crossroads of the world.

As home to one of the greatest ports in maritime trade, Singapore is the focal point for some 200 shipping lines with links to more than 600 ports worldwide. It is the busiest port in the world in terms of shipping tonnage, with an average 140,000 vessels calling at the port annually.

In terms of both passenger and freight air transport, Changi Airport has established itself as a major aviation hub in the Asia-Pacific. It is served by 80 airlines with over 7,400 flights connecting to more than 400 cities in 100 countries and territories.

Although most noted for its extensive sea and air links, Singapore also has road and rail connections to the rest of Southeast Asia.

Singapore is connected to the Malaysian railway system, whose most southerly station is actually located within Singapore. With a regular passenger and freight schedule, trains wind their way up Peninsular Malaysia stopping at all the important towns and cities.

Global Meeting Place – maritime events, conferences & exhibitions

Singapore is the premier location for hosting regional and international maritime events, conferences and exhibitions.

Singapore is the premier location for hosting regional and international maritime events, conferences and exhibitions, where industry players can engage in business and social networking, exchange knowledge on industry trends, local and international regulatory and business developmental thinking as well as exhibit their products and services.

Singapore’s excellent infrastructure, efficient transport & communication links and a wide range of accommodation and dining options and leisure activities offer delegates, exhibitors and event participants a safe, relaxed and pleasant environment in which to conduct their business.

To further develop and promote Singapore as a global meeting place and location for maritime events, MPA works together with strategic partners within the maritime industry and relevant government agencies such as the Singapore Maritime Foundation and the Singapore Tourism Board respectively, to host major maritime events, conferences, exhibitions, talks, seminars and think-tank sessions, covering the entire spectrum of the maritime industry. Examples of such events include:

Singapore Maritime Week – the leading annual maritime event in Singapore.

Singapore International Bunkering Conference (SIBCON)

International Chemical and Oil Pollution Conference and Exhibition (ICOPCE)

Global Forum - Port Authorities Roundtable

Objectives of PAR

The inaugural Port Authorities Roundtable (PAR) was held in Singapore on 20 April 2015, in conjunction with the 10th Singapore Maritime Week (SMW). PAR is a by-invitation event for CEO/Chairman/President/Director-General of leading port authorities to:

  • gather and discuss issues of mutual interests to address common challenges;
  • exchange best practices; and
  • seek mutually beneficial collaboration opportunities.


Participation criteria for PAR

PAR is a by-invitation event for CEO/Chairman/President/Director-General of leading port authorities.

Visit the PAR website here