Five of the largest container shipping companies, MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, and Ocean Network Express, are planning to establish an association to pave the way for digitalization, standardization and interoperability of the container shipping industry.
IT executives from these companies are currently discussing the creation of common information technology standards which will be openly available and free of charge for all stakeholders of the container shipping industry.
The association aims to reduce bureaucracy and improve transparency.
André Simha, CIO of MSC and spokesperson of the group, commented:
The timing is right, as emerging technologies create new customer friendly opportunities. Together, we gain traction in delivering technological breakthroughs and services to our customers compared to working in our own closed silos
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The members of the group aspire to create a neutral and non-profit body for ocean carriers that is driven by delivering benefits for the industry and its stakeholders. For this reason the association is not considering developing or operating any digital platform and it also calls for new members to join in. What is more, the association will not discuss any commercial or operational matters.
The companies want to operate the new association as from early 2019, while it will also comply with all legal and regulatory requirements.
