Port of Thessaloniki has adopted blockchain technology through integrating with TradeLens, a digital logistics platform by Maersk and IBM, marking the first time that a port in Greece uses this kind of technology.
Thessaloniki port authority said it is focused on the transformation of the second Greek port into a “smart port” through smart technologies for the digitisation of systems, to provide innovative and high-end services with simplified procedures, creating surplus value for the wider port community.
The integration of the Port of Thessaloniki to the Tradlenes platform is expected to improve asset and yard management by leveraging information from partners earlier, as well as simplify and reduce the cost of connecting to each individual shipping line and the wider port community.
The transformation of manual, paper-based and time-consuming administrative processes into digital processes optimises and accelerates the decision-making process for the port and associated ecosystems, according to a statement.
“The use of the Tradelens platform contributes to the increase of operational efficiency, through better visibility of container flows across multiple modes, while improving the impact on the climate change. Joining the TradeLens platform is a great step forward for ThPA S.A. – Port of Thessaloniki to lead the change in the Greek intermodal logistics industry, pioneering in the digitization of the South East European supply chain,” commented Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Thessaloniki Port Authority (ThPA), Thanos Liagkos.
TradeLens platform provides visibility across the entire supply chain and is built on a wealth of input from the industry including direct integrations with more than 180 ports and terminals, 15+ customs authorities around the world, and an increasing number of intermodal providers.
Thomas Sproat, Sr. Director Network Development at TradeLens, said, “We are thrilled to add ThPA S.A. – Port of Thessaloniki (the 1st Greek Port Container Terminal) to the TradeLens ecosystem as we have an important partner in Greece and South East Europe to provide efficient end to end movement of containers and thus helping our joint customers to reduce overall logistics costs.”
