IAPH has teamed up with chainPORT, a multilateral partnership of the world’s leading ‘smart ports’, on a project to develop a common understanding on critical components of digital port infrastructure that fosters the harmonisation of data throughout the maritime supply chain. Port authorities have leveraged their neutral role to strengthen the cooperation on information exchange between shipping lines, terminal operators and port community systems. The project further involves the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA), the Terminal Industry Committee 4.0 (TIC 4.0) and the International Port Community System Association (IPCSA). Building on existing results in harmonisation and standardisation of participating parties, the standard processes and terminology associated with time stamps in the port call process will be brought together, to ensure high data quality, standardisation, and smooth information flow through real-time communication channels. Furthermore, the project prioritises meeting the evolving needs of Beneficial Cargo Owners (BCOs), who, in the post-pandemic era, seek heightened control and visibility across their supply chains. Through diligent collaboration and coordination with all relevant stakeholders, chainPORT and IAPH are committed to enhancing supply chain resilience in ports. chainPORT was initiated in 2016 by the port authorities of Hamburg and Los Angeles in collaboration with the Global Institute of Logistics. The initiative is supported by the ports of Antwerp-Bruges, Barcelona, Busan, Felixstowe, Gothenburg, Indonesia, Montreal, Panama, Rotterdam, Singapore, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Tanger Med.
