Iraq is moving to digitalize its maritime sector, with plans to establish a one-stop digital platform or “maritime single window” for the major ports of Um Qasr – north and south.
The aim of the so-called maritime single window is to exchange key information among relevant stakeholders and agencies involved in the arrival, stay and departure of ships at ports.
To remind, all IMO member states since January 1 are required to use a single digital platform or “Maritime Single Window” (MSW) to share and exchange information with ships when they call at ports.
The IMO has said that a maritime single window system “will save time and costs” as more than 80% of Iraq’s imported goods pass through the Um Qasr ports.
Once implemented, it will be extended to the Al-Faw Grand Port, scheduled to open in December 2024, and other Iraqi ports in the future.
A team of IMO experts completed a mission to Basra from June 30 to July 4 to identify what support the country needs.
IMO consultants met with Iraqi senior port officials, representatives from the maritime administration, government ministries and other relevant authorities.
The team undertook field visits to observe the various port operations.
As it is reported, the detailed report of the mission, including recommendations, will serve as a reference for the development of the MSW system in Iraq.
“It will guide the development of related IT platforms which will interact with the MSW,” as it is said by IMO.
