Smaller ports hampered by poor technology uptake
Four-fifths of ports globally are missing key foundational technologies that support the safe and efficient transition of cargo
Reliance on old-fashioned whiteboards and spreadsheets is hampering the efficiency of second-tier ports and threatening global logistics chains, according to Innoyez-One, a Singapore-based port software provider.
The company claims approximately 80% of the world’s 4,900 ports are still not employing digital technology for even the most basic processes.
Furthermore, the research concluded that only about a third of 100 ports surveyed were complying with IMO rules on electronic key data exchange.
This makes the last mile of the journey at sea a potential weak link in the global logistics chain, increasing the risks of delays, late payments, increased fuel consumption and lack of traceability.
The main barrier to digitalisation, according to the ports, appeared to be legal frameworks and an unwillingness amongst private-public stakeholders to collaborate. A lack of suitable technology was not considered to be the problem.
Innoyez-One’s research is supported by research from the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH).