IMO Calls Industry To Do More Digitalise Operations

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IMO’s Secretary General, Kitack Lim was speaking virtually at the opening of the IMO-Singapore Future of Shipping Conference, discussing ways for the industry to do more to digitalise operations, reports safety4sea.

Shipping Needs Digitalisation

As Mr Lim explained, “seafarers cannot work from home, unlike many of us who have seen the benefits of technology or remote work. Shipping needs digitalisation.”

What is more, the conference shared ways to transition from conventional marine fuels to zero-carbon types such as hydrogen, ammonia and methanol. In this aspect, Mr Lim said that everyone has a part to play in addressing challenges, and the industry must keep pace with the demands of the global economy and the expectations for sustainable growth.

Vessel-Related Transactions

The Sec-Gen also advocated for a single digital portal through which all vessel-related transactions at ports can be processed. Commenting on such a process, he noted that a committee is working to make the use of such portals compulsorym but the challenge is to ensure it is fully implemented across all nations and all ports.

Real-Time Updates

This technology will give users real-time updates on ships’ estimated arrival and departure times as well as their port activities. As a result, ships will no longer have to rush to wait at ports for their turn.

What is more, Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung added that Singapore will cooperate with the IMO in helping developing countries digitise their port clearance processes.

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Source: safety4sea