A needs assessment mission carried out in Côte d’Ivoire has laid the groundwork for the country to set up a maritime single window system in the Port of Abidjan.
The Maritime Single Window is a one-stop digital platform for information exchange among different stakeholders and agencies involved in clearing the arrival, stay and departure of ships. Having a single “window” for information exchange streamlines procedures and saves time and costs.
Since January 1, it has been mandatory for all International Maritime Organization (IMO) member states to establish maritime single window systems in ports to enhance the efficiency of shipping worldwide.
The needs assessment mission took place in June and was conducted by IMO consultants in collaboration with the Port of Abidjan, relevant ministries, public agencies, including customs and border agencies, and other stakeholders. The mission concluded with a meeting between all stakeholders to validate the findings.
A detailed report from the mission will serve as the basis for further actions in the development of the maritime single window in Côte d’Ivoire. This includes findings and analyses carried out for the deployment of a maritime single window, according to IMO principles and guidance, as well as the development of related IT tools which interact with the window.
The report will include recommendations resulting from the analysis by the IMO consultants.
