From 1 January 2024 it will be compulsory for ports around the world to operate Maritime Single Windows (MSWs) for the electronic exchange of information required on ships’ arrival at a port, their stay and their departure. This mandatory change follows the adoption by IMO’s Facilitation Committee of amendments to the FAL Convention. IMO hosted “Maritime Single Window 2024 – A window of opportunities”, a two-day Symposium in January that was supported by international organizations and experts across the shipping and ports sectors. Participants explored how maritime single windows can achieve maritime trade facilitation and support decarbonization efforts. Many agree that technology is available and that cultural change is hindering progress. Maritime stakeholders, including governments, should see this an opportunity and move away from seeing it as a compliance issue.
