The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has added its support to BIMCO’s ‘25 by 25’ Campaign, which aims to accelerate the adoption of electronic bills of lading (eBLs) in the bulk sector by having stakeholders pledge to move at least 25% of their annual seaborne trade volume for at least one commodity using eBLs by 2025.
Singapore has made significant efforts to promote digital trade document exchange in recent years, and was one of the first nations to adopt the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR).
“We are delighted to have MPA’s support for our campaign,” said Grant Hunter, Director of Standards, Innovation and Research at BIMCO.
“As we await more jurisdictions to follow Singapore’s lead and enact MLETR, the message is that the industry can benefit from adopting eBLs using available technologies and frameworks. Acting now will show legislators that the industry is committed to digitalising these important trade documents ahead of legal reform.”
MPA joins mining giants Vale, BHP, Rio Tinto, and Anglo American in their support for the initiative, launched in mid-March, with shipping companies including Wah Kwong, Lauritzen Bulkers and Ultrabulk also adding their commitment to accelerating the introduction of eBLs on a broader scale.
“We are pleased to support the campaign towards wider adoption of eBLs to strengthen global supply chain efficiency and resilience,” said Thomas Ting, Chief Technology Officer at MPA.
“Digitalising this important international trade document will help accelerate digital transformation through the entire supply value chain. MPA will continue to work with industry partners to encourage interoperability and growth of digital trade services.”
