The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) will take over the regulation of cruise terminal operators from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to ensure that terminals here are run in accordance with the Republic's goal of developing its cruise sector and remaining the region's leading cruise hub.

The move empowers the STB to ensure high service standards and the optimal use of the limited number of berths at the Singapore Cruise Centre and Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore and prevent excessive pricing, said Minister of State for Trade and Industry Alvin Tan.

"As the volume of cruise tourism grows, Singapore's cruise terminals will become critical infrastructure for our tourism sector," said Mr Tan during the debate on the STB (Amendment) Bill on Monday that Parliament approved.

When the law takes effect, STB will be able to directly manage the affairs, business and property of a cruise terminal licensee under extraordinary circumstances, such as if the operator becomes insolvent.

This is to ensure business continuity and avoid disruptions to cruise operations and passenger flows, said Mr Tan.

The updated law will also require that cruise terminal licensees' central management and control take place in Singapore, so that STB can take swift enforcement action if needed.