Singapore’s bunkering industry is entering a new era of digitalisation. As the sector moves towards mandatory digital bunkering, companies across the value chain will need to adapt to new processes, technologies and operating practices. While digitalisation promises greater transparency and efficiency, the transition is more than replacing paper-based processes with digital ones.
Preparing the Industry for Change
As Singapore’s transition towards mandatory digital bunkering accelerates, building industry readiness will be critical. While many organisations initially view digital bunkering as a regulatory requirement, industry stakeholders are increasingly recognising its potential to transform the way bunker transactions are managed.
To support maritime professionals and organisations on this journey, the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) recently conducted the inaugural run of “Maritime Bunkering: The Transformation Journey 101” course. It brought together 10 maritime professionals seeking to better understand the industry’s transition towards mandatory digital bunkering.
Led by Mr Collin Ng, Chief Technology and Product Officer and his team from Ofiniti, the course explored the practical implications of digital bunkering goes beyond explaining regulatory requirements. Through industry case studies, practical discussions and implementation-focused workshops, participants examined the operational, technological and organisational considerations involved in the transition.
A key area of discussion centred on organisational readiness. Participants were encouraged to evaluate the impact of digitalisation on their existing workflows, stakeholder engagement and business processes, while identifying practical steps to support implementation within their companies.
More Than a Technology Upgrade
Throughout the session, participants explored how digital bunkering can deliver benefits beyond regulatory compliance. Discussions highlighted how digital records can improve transparency and strengthen auditability. They can also reduce the likelihood of disputes between parties. Participants also examined how standardised digital data can support better operational planning, performance monitoring and decision-making.
Supporting Industry Readiness
For many companies, digitalisation presents both challenges and opportunities. Adapting to new workflows, integrating digital systems and managing organisational change can require significant effort.
One participant shared:
“Having recently started a role in bunker procurement, I was not aware that eBDN and mandatory digital bunkering had been implemented in Singapore from 1 April 2025. The course helped me keep abreast of the latest developments and transformation taking place in this space.”
– Mr How Peng Kheng, Chartering Operations, Aster Chemicals and Energy Pte. Ltd.
As Singapore advances its digitalisation ambitions, initiatives that build industry knowledge and capability will play an important role in ensuring a smooth transition.
Through courses such as Maritime Bunkering: The Transformation Journey 101, SSA continues to support maritime companies in developing the knowledge and capabilities needed to thrive in an increasingly digital future.
For future runs of the course, please visit the SSA Courses Calendar or email training@ssa.org.sg to stay updated on upcoming training dates.