BIMCO submits paper calling for the IMO to develop a digitalisation strategy

The paper has been submitted in conjunction with China, Liberia, Republic of Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates and the ISO (International Standardisation Organisation).

Digitalisation is becoming a crucial element as the maritime industry is working to decarbonise, and the use of digital technologies can significantly boost operational efficiency, resilience, sustainability and innovation. In this regard, the IMO plays a pivotal role in promoting digitalisation across the maritime sector. However, effective implementation of digitalisation requires substantial coordination among various stakeholders and digital initiatives.

 To maximise the benefits, a digitalisation strategy by the IMO must aim to define a clear roadmap for the strategic direction of the organisation, enhancing the standardisation, harmonisation and integration of digital solutions.

In a recent survey conducted by BIMCO, IAPH, IFSMA and FONASBA, a key finding showed that 40% of the shipping industry is unaware of the IMO resolution mandating the use of a “maritime single window” for data exchange from 1 January 2024. Another result was that only 36% of port calls offered fully electronic exchange of data. Both findings illustrate the current dilemma of the maritime industry: when to invest and implement a given solution….

The examples above emphasise the proactive role of the IMO in maritime digitalisation. Many emerging technologies require a coordinated approach within the IMO and between the IMO and other intergovernmental organisations (such as the International Hydrographic Organization and The International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities). Absence of such coordination could put a limitation on several benefits.

An overarching IMO strategy on digitalisation could, on the other hand, offer the maritime industry numerous benefits. These include promoting the adoption of electronic formats in various reporting requirements, enhancing data harmonisation, and ensuring system interoperability across digital systems and platforms 

Therefore, a digitalisation strategy from the IMO will not only send a strong signal on the priorities of the organisation, but also signal the importance of digitalisation externally and among, industry stakeholders. By doing so, the IMO can make sure that all stakeholders, including those outside the organisation, are aware of the strategy and aligned with its digital agenda, promoting greater collaboration among stakeholders, wider adoption of standards, and more effective implementation of digital solutions as a result. Consequently, it will represent a major step towards increasing efficiency, safety, and sustainability of the maritime industry