Question map
Singapore is known as Port of Call because
Explanation
Singapore is classified as a 'Port of Call' because it historically developed as a strategic calling point on major international sea routes. These ports serve as essential stopover locations where vessels anchor to replenish vital supplies, including fuel (refuelling), fresh water (watering), and food items [3]. While Singapore has evolved into a major commercial hub and an entrepot port—specializing in the redistribution of goods—its fundamental identity as a port of call remains rooted in its geographical position at the crossroads of global maritime trade [3]. Official maritime data confirms that Singapore is one of the world's busiest ports, acting as a focal point for hundreds of shipping lines and thousands of annual vessel calls for bunkering and logistics [2]. This function is distinct from 'oil ports' which focus on processing [2], or 'outports' which serve larger inland ports [3].
Sources
- [1] FUNDAMENTALS OF HUMAN GEOGRAPHY, CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 8: International Trade > Types of Port > p. 76
- [3] Certificate Physical and Human Geography , GC Leong (Oxford University press 3rd ed.) > Chapter 31: Settlements and Towns > Functions of Settlements > p. 320
- [2] https://www.mpa.gov.sg/maritime-singapore/what-maritime-singapore-offers/global-hub-port