An analysis of how the UN biodiversity treaty entering into force on January 17, 2026 could reshape Singapore’s role in ocean governance, trade, and sustainability

A New Era for Ocean Governance

The international waters that stretch beyond national jurisdictions have long existed in a regulatory gray zone. But as of today, that changes. The UN Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) treaty has officially entered into force, establishing the first comprehensive legal framework for the high seas—an area covering two-thirds of the world’s oceans and half the planet’s surface.

For Singapore, a small island nation whose entire identity and prosperity are intertwined with the sea, this development carries profound implications that extend far beyond environmental concerns. The treaty could fundamentally alter how the city-state conducts maritime trade, develops its blue economy, and positions itself as a regional leader in ocean sustainability.

Singapore’s Ocean Dilemma

Singapore finds itself in a unique position. While the treaty primarily governs international waters beyond national jurisdiction, the Republic’s role as one of the world’s busiest ports means that virtually every aspect of its economy touches the high seas. More than 130,000 ships call at Singapore annually, making it a critical node in global maritime networks that will now operate under enhanced environmental scrutiny.

The nation has not yet publicly confirmed its ratification status, though more than 80 countries have joined China, Brazil, and Japan in backing the treaty. For Singapore, the calculus involves balancing its commitment to environmental leadership with the practical realities of maintaining its competitive edge as a maritime hub.

The 30 by 30 Challenge and Regional Cooperation

The treaty’s ambitious goal of protecting 30 percent of the ocean by 2030 presents both opportunities and challenges for Southeast Asia. Currently, only about 8 percent of global oceans enjoy protected status. Meeting the new target would require establishing more than 190,000 marine protected areas, according to environmentalists.

For Singapore, this creates an opening to demonstrate regional leadership. The waters surrounding Southeast Asia are among the world’s most biodiverse but also most threatened by overfishing, pollution, and climate change. Singapore could leverage its diplomatic influence and scientific expertise to help coordinate regional marine protected areas, particularly in shared waters like the South China Sea and the Straits of Malacca.

The National University of Singapore’s Tropical Marine Science Institute and other local research bodies are well-positioned to contribute scientific assessments needed to designate and manage these protected zones. Singapore’s participation could also strengthen ASEAN’s collective voice in global ocean governance.

Impact on Maritime Trade and Shipping

The treaty mandates environmental impact assessments for activities affecting ocean ecology. This requirement could have cascading effects on Singapore’s shipping industry, which contributes significantly to GDP and employment.

Shipping companies using Singapore as a home port or transhipment hub may face new compliance requirements. Vessel routes that pass through newly designated marine protected areas could require modification, potentially affecting efficiency and costs. Ballast water management, waste disposal at sea, and emissions in international waters may all face heightened scrutiny.

However, this also positions Singapore to develop expertise in sustainable maritime practices. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has already been promoting green shipping initiatives. The treaty could accelerate demand for the environmental technologies, services, and certifications that Singapore is cultivating as part of its maritime innovation ecosystem.

Blue Economy Opportunities

One of the treaty’s most intriguing provisions involves the sharing of benefits from “marine genetic resources” found in international waters. These biological materials from deep-sea organisms have applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, biotechnology, and industrial processes.

Singapore’s biotechnology sector, anchored by institutions like A*STAR and the growing biomedical cluster, could benefit from more equitable access to these resources. Previously, such resources were exploited primarily by nations with the technological capability for deep-sea exploration. The new framework aims to democratize access and ensure developing nations share in the economic benefits.

This creates opportunities for Singapore to position itself as a regional hub for marine biotechnology research and commercialization. The nation’s existing strengths in research infrastructure, intellectual property protection, and regulatory frameworks make it well-suited to translate marine genetic discoveries into commercial applications.

Fishing Industry and Food Security Considerations

While Singapore’s domestic fishing industry is minimal, the nation imports more than 90 percent of its food, with seafood representing a significant portion. The treaty’s provisions addressing overfishing in international waters could affect global seafood supply chains and prices.

Stricter protections may reduce catches from high seas fisheries in the short term, potentially increasing costs for importers. However, proponents argue that sustainable management will ensure healthier fish stocks and more stable long-term supplies—a net positive for food security.

Singapore’s ongoing efforts to develop alternative protein sources, including fish grown through aquaculture and cellular agriculture, may become more strategically important. The treaty’s conservation focus could accelerate investment in these technologies as insurance against seafood supply disruptions.

The Deep-Sea Mining Question

Notably absent from the treaty’s scope is regulation of deep-seabed mining, which remains under the purview of the International Seabed Authority. This represents a significant limitation, as seabed mining is considered by many conservationists to be among the gravest emerging threats to ocean ecosystems.

The ocean floor contains vast deposits of cobalt, nickel, copper, and rare earth elements crucial for batteries, electronics, and renewable energy technologies. As demand for these materials grows to support global decarbonization efforts, pressure to exploit seabed resources is intensifying.

Singapore companies involved in offshore engineering and marine technology could potentially participate in seabed mining operations. The nation will need to navigate the tension between economic opportunities and environmental concerns as international debates over deep-sea mining continue.

Diplomatic and Strategic Positioning

The treaty creates new forums for international cooperation on ocean governance. Singapore has historically punched above its weight in multilateral negotiations, using its reputation for competence and neutrality to bridge divides between larger powers.

Active participation in BBNJ implementation could enhance Singapore’s diplomatic standing. The nation could host regional workshops, provide technical assistance to developing countries, and help mediate between states with competing interests in ocean resources.

This is particularly relevant given ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea. While the BBNJ treaty doesn’t resolve sovereignty questions, it does provide a framework for cooperation on conservation that could build trust and establish precedents for collaboration even in contested areas.

Legal and Regulatory Adaptations

Implementing the treaty will require Singapore to adapt its domestic legal framework. Environmental assessment procedures for activities with potential impacts on international waters will need to be established or strengthened. Regulations governing Singaporean companies and vessels operating in the high seas may require updates.

The Attorney-General’s Chambers and relevant ministries will need to work through complex questions about jurisdiction, compliance mechanisms, and enforcement. Singapore’s well-regarded legal system and regulatory capacity should facilitate this transition, potentially positioning the nation as a model for treaty implementation.

The Path Forward

The entry into force of the BBNJ treaty marks a beginning, not an end. The preparatory committee’s work will now shift toward implementation, including establishing the administrative structures, technical guidelines, and funding mechanisms needed to make the treaty’s ambitions reality.

For Singapore, the coming months will be crucial. Decisions about ratification, resource allocation, and strategic priorities will shape the nation’s role in this new era of ocean governance. The stakes are high—not just for marine ecosystems, but for Singapore’s economic competitiveness, food security, and regional influence.

The treaty represents a recognition that the ocean’s vastness does not exempt it from human responsibility. For an island nation built on maritime trade and surrounded by threatened seas, few global agreements carry more direct relevance. How Singapore responds may well determine not just its contribution to ocean conservation, but its prosperity and security in the decades ahead.

Key Takeaways for Singapore

Immediate considerations:

• Clarify ratification status and timeline for joining the treaty
• Assess impacts on shipping operations and port activities
• Identify opportunities for marine biotechnology development
• Prepare legal and regulatory frameworks for compliance

Medium-term priorities:

• Lead regional cooperation on marine protected area designation
• Develop expertise in environmental impact assessments for ocean activities
• Invest in sustainable maritime technologies and services
• Strengthen food security through diversified seafood sources

Long-term strategic goals:

• Position Singapore as a regional hub for ocean governance and marine science
• Balance blue economy development with conservation commitments
• Navigate the complex politics of seabed mining as debates continue
• Use ocean diplomacy to enhance regional stability and influence

The high seas treaty offers Singapore an opportunity to align environmental stewardship with national interests. Success will require the same pragmatic idealism that has characterized the nation’s approach to other global challenges—ambitious in vision, meticulous in execution, and always mindful of Singapore’s unique position in a interconnected world.