Greek first for blockchain

The Port of Thessaloniki (ThPA S.A.) has embraced blockchain technology with TradeLens, a digital logistics platform supported by five of the six largest ocean carriers.

”The use of the Tradelens platform contributes to the increase of operational efficiency, through better visibility of container flows across multiple modes,” said Thanos Liagkos, executive chairman of the BoD of ThPA S.A.

”Joining the TradeLens platform is a great step forward for to lead the change in the Greek intermodal logistics industry, pioneering in the digitisation of the South East European supply chain.”

Smart port

Mr Liagkos said that ThPA S.A. is focused on the transformation of the Port of Thessaloniki into a “smart port” through the digitisation of its systems.

For the port, detailed visibility movements of container shipments is a very important factor. The TradeLens platform will allow for it to provide efficient, transparent and secure exchange of information to foster greater collaboration and trust across the global supply chain.

Mr Liagkos said that the platform significantly improves asset and yard management by leveraging information from partners earlier, as well as simplifying and reducing the cost of connecting to each individual shipping line and the wider port community.

In addition, the transformation of manual, paper-based and time-consuming administrative processes into digital processes optimises and accelerates the decision-making process for ThPA S.A. and its stakeholders.

The TradeLens platform is jointly developed by Maersk and IBM and is an open and neutral industry platform underpinned by blockchain technology.

It 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.