Since early 2024, PSA Singapore (PSA) has significantly enhanced its operational capacity to accommodate increased activity and mitigate the impact of global supply chain disruptions.

Measures taken include bolstering frontline capabilities, launching new berths at Tuas Port in Singapore, and reactivating berth and yard spaces at Keppel Terminal. Consequently, the average port waiting time has recently been reduced to two days or less.

Throughout the year, there has been strong berth demand at port terminals, with ships arriving sporadically and concentrating on specific days of the week. This has led to a significant increase in waiting times, despite PSA’s berths being fully utilized. Larger vessels require longer stays and extended container transshipment times.

“As the flagship project of the group, PSA Singapore remains committed to tackling ongoing volatility challenges and ensuring that port development and handling capacity align with our customers’ needs,” said Ong Kim Pong, Group CEO of PSA International.

Ong Kim Pong added, “At the same time, we are continually seeking to expand the structure of our port network and ecosystem to increase our global influence in areas where we can add value and enhance cargo flow. By leveraging our port facilities, supply chain capabilities, and especially our employees, we will steadfastly strengthen collaboration with our customers to meet their customized needs in the evolving global environment.”

In 2024, about 90% of container ships arrived late at the Port of Singapore, a significant increase from the average of about 77% in 2023. Meanwhile, vessel stay times at PSA’s ports increased by 22% compared to the same period last year.

The increase is due to higher demand and the practice of re-handling containers, with more containers being loaded and unloaded per vessel call. This process involves unloading containers based on factors such as discharge port, weight considerations, and vessel stability, accommodating other containers, and then reloading these containers back onto the vessel.

The proactive measures taken by the port group and effective communication with shipping lines and stakeholders have greatly mitigated the impact of disruptions. The management team of the Singapore port group, in close cooperation with unions and with strong support from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and the Ministry of Transport of Singapore, ensures the smooth operation of the port ecosystem.