MPA launches maritime fund to fight COVID-19

The Maritime Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has unveiled a $27 million package to support the maritime industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a statement, the MPA said the MaritimeSG Together Package which will take effect from 1 May 2020. This is on top of previous measures announced under the Unity, Resilience and Solidarity Budgets.

It will specifically provide financial support to companies, individuals and seafarers in Singapore.

To help vessel owners and operators of cargo vessels, MPA will provide a 30% port dues concession for cargo vessels from 1 May to 31 Dec 2020. MPA will also grant a 30% port dues concession for all non passenger-carrying harbourcraft in the Port of Singapore over the same period.

To strengthen longer-term capabilities, MPA will introduce new manpower schemes and increase the co-funding provided under selected Maritime Cluster Fund programmes, from 1 May to 31 Dec 2020.

A new Maritime Cluster Fund-Internship Reimbursement Scheme will help maritime companies continue to provide students who are Singaporeans or Singapore Permanent Residents with internship opportunities.

MPA will also increase its co-funding support under selected Maritime Cluster Fund schemes to up to 90%. These measures seek to encourage upskilling and further support maritime companies in their digital transformation efforts during this period.

https://www.porttechnology.org/news/mpa-launches-maritime-fund-to-fight-covid-19/