IAPH member ports are invited to participate in a new API testbed initiative aimed at advancing digital collaboration and standardized data exchange across the port sector – a key step toward greater transparency, efficiency, and interoperability in maritime logistics, enabling ports and industry stakeholders to align on common data standards and practices.
As highlighted in the recently published Port Call Optimization (PCO) Guide, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) is hosting a dedicated GitHub-based API testbed for the standardized minimum dataset of nautical and operational information defined in the Guide, available from 1 April 2026 to 1 April 2031.
The testbed will involve a limited number of ports and a clearly defined data scope.
The initiative provides a clear pathway for ports to be formally recognized as PCO Network Ports:
・Ports prepare and submit their API
・APIs are tested within the testbed to ensure compliance with agreed standards
・Successfully validated ports are recognized as PCO Network Ports
・Maritime stakeholders gain access to harmonized nautical and operational data simultaneously
Additionally, a demo API will be available for data users to ensure seamless connectivity between systems.
This testbed, as outlined in the PCO Guide, represents a key step toward greater transparency, efficiency, and interoperability in maritime logistics, enabling ports and industry stakeholders to align on common data standards and practices.
Ports interested in joining should contact Captain Ben van Scherpenzeel, project officer, IHMA: [email protected].
