In a landmark move to modernise global shipping operations, leading maritime bodies have jointly released a unified framework to standardise the exchange of port call data—marking a decisive step toward greater efficiency, safety, and emissions reduction across the supply chain.
The Port Call Optimization Guide, developed by the International Association of Ports and Harbors and the International Harbour Masters Association, introduces a structured, step-by-step approach for ports and shipping stakeholders to digitally share a core set of high-value operational data.
The initiative has garnered strong industry backing, with endorsements from around 40 major maritime organisations, including BIMCO, International Chamber of Shipping, INTERTANKO, and INTERCARGO. The framework aligns with established standards set by the International Maritime Organization, International Organization for Standardization, and International Hydrographic Organization.
This marks the first global port-side equivalent to ship-focused navigation standards developed by the IMO, directly tackling inefficiencies such as prolonged berth waiting times—one of the key contributors to avoidable emissions in maritime logistics.
Importantly, the framework has already moved beyond theory. Successful pilot projects have been conducted across major ports in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, including a historic live data exchange demonstration between the ports of Singapore and Rotterdam.
“This guide is the result of long-term industry collaboration, translating IMO safety ambitions into practical port operations,” said Patrick Verhoeven.
Further momentum is building at the regulatory level, with submissions presented this week to the IMO Facilitation Committee outlining a pathway toward formalised global guidelines on port nautical information exchange.
Industry experts believe the adoption of standardised port call data could significantly cut vessel idle times, improve schedule reliability, and reduce emissions—delivering cumulative benefits across thousands of port calls daily and reshaping the efficiency of global maritime trade.
