Maersk boosts Asia Pacific logistics footprint with new fully automated global and regional distribution centre in Singapore

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A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) has officially opened a 1.1 million square feet, fully automated global and regional distribution centre in Singapore, the World Gateway II, marking a major expansion of its contract logistics and e-commerce capabilities in the Asia Pacific.

Supported by the Singapore Government, the facility is designed to serve the rapidly growing demand of companies that rely on Singapore as a regional or global distribution centre due to its prime location and its status as a top logistics hub. It also caters to B2B and B2C e-commerce fulfilment across Asia Pacific. It will handle a wide range of products from verticals including lifestyle, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), retail, wellness and technology.

Leveraging Singapore’s strategic location and connectivity, the site enables efficient distribution of cargo overseas, with close proximity to major transport infrastructure, including the Tuas Port and Changi Airport. It is also located a short distance from Maersk’s World Gateway regional distribution centre, which measures 1.0 million square feet.

“The launch of World Gateway II reflects the importance of Singapore to our global network and the immense opportunities we see in Asia. Underpinned by continued export strength and increasing consumption, Asia’s growth trajectory remains extraordinary. This new facility is yet another milestone of our fast-growing integrated logistics business in the region, and how we support customers with more resilience and flexibility,” said Vincent Clerc, CEO of Maersk.

Advanced automation to drive efficiency and scale
The warehouse is equipped with cutting-edge automation technologies, including a Multi-Shuttle System, Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), Autonomous Case-handling Robots (ACR), and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). These systems enable faster order fulfilment, shorter lead times, and improved accuracy by reducing manual handling.

“Doubling our warehousing footprint in Singapore is a bold step forward and a strong vote of confidence in this market and our customers. It reflects our commitment to growth and strengthening our regional leadership in contract logistics. The combination of scale and advanced automation positions us to unlock new opportunities, particularly in high-value verticals like luxury fashion, while delivering consistent efficiency at scale,” said Chang Kee Seng, Head of Maersk Contract Logistics Asia Pacific.

Maersk has invested more than S$200 million for the development of World Gateway II, which has reached approximately 70 per cent occupancy. Once fully operational, the site will create around 500 jobs utilising advanced digital and automation capabilities.

“World Gateway II strengthens Singapore’s position as a premier logistics hub in APAC, offering businesses a trusted and well-connected base to scale across the region’s fast-growing markets. We welcome this investment by Maersk, a long-standing partner of Singapore, which will create jobs in digitalisation and automation while boosting the capabilities of our logistics workforce,” said Png Cheong Boon, Chairman EDB.

“MPA congratulates Maersk on the opening of its fully automated World Gateway II facility in Singapore. By leveraging our strong connectivity and efficient port, businesses can optimise their supply chains by co-locating logistics, manufacturing, and distribution activities here. This will improve their efficiency and speed to market, and help strengthen the resilience of the global supply chain,” said Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of MPA.

World Gateway II – Facility Highlights

  • 11-metre clear height per floor – supports dense storage and advanced automation
  • Ample loading bays and rooftop container parking – ready for peak season demand
  • Prime location – 16.8 kilometres from Tuas Mega Port, 42.6 kilometres from Changi Airport
  • Customs bonded, zero-GST warehouse storage – import Goods and Service Tax (GST) deferred on non-dutiable goods until goods enter the market
  • End-to-end transport management system – real-time shipment tracking and full visibility of the flow of goods
  • Value-added services – such as labelling, coding, bundling, kitting, re-packing
  • Integrated Warehouse Management System (WMS) – offers integration with customers’ systems, boosting accuracy, visibility, and agility
  • LEED Platinum & Green Mark Platinum certified – reduced energy and water use with solar panels, smart LED lighting, energy-efficient insulation
  • Top-tier security standards– Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) Class A certified for secure warehousing