Seven Asian countries have stepped up efforts to advance maritime digitalization, exchanging practical experience and exploring technologies to support safer shipping and improve port efficiency.
Invited by IMO, representatives from Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Viet Nam met in Busan, Republic of Korea (28-30 October) to discuss key areas of maritime digitalization, including Maritime Single Window (MSW) implementation and e-navigation.
The programme combined a capacity-development workshop with participation in the 10th Digital at Sea Asia-Pacific Conference, offering opportunities to examine emerging technologies, international standards and practical approaches to digital transformation across the maritime sector.
Digital tools to strengthen safety at sea
Participants took part in the Capacity Development Workshop on Enhancing Safety of Navigation with Maritime Digitalization at the Busan Port International Exhibition & Convention Center (BPEX), where they explored how digital technologies can support safer and more efficient shipping.
Sessions covered next-generation electronic chart display and information systems, S-101 electronic navigational charts, autonomous navigation support systems, and information tools to support remote operators and decision-making in collision response.
Participants also received updates from the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA), alongside presentations on the Republic of Korea's experience in maritime digitalization.
Discussions on Maritime Single Window implementation examined the use of artificial intelligence and system design to support once-only reporting, enabling information to be submitted once and shared among relevant authorities. Delegates also exchanged national experiences and lessons learned.
Learning from others
Participants additionally attended the 10th Digital at Sea Asia-Pacific Conference, held during Korea Maritime Week under the theme "A Decade Together, A Future Connected."
The conference examined developments in maritime digitalization and connectivity, including digital service standards for vessel traffic services, S-100 implementation, electronic port call processes and the Maritime Connectivity Platform.
Examples shared included trials of real-time S-124 services in Australia, Singapore's maritime digital ecosystem, the Republic of Korea's maritime Internet of Things network and Denmark's maritime digitalization strategy. Discussions highlighted how these innovations can support the ongoing digital transformation of maritime administrations.
