Shareholders of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, RX/SeaPort, and APZI have reached an agreement to integrate the RX/SeaPort and NxtPort digital platforms with the aim of creating a more connected and efficient supply chain in the Port.
The goal of the partnership is to evolve towards a single integrated platform that meets current requirements while enabling the development of shared applications. By bundling resources, the partners aim to invest more efficiently in digital tools while respecting the unique characteristics of the various sectors in both ports.
Coordination for generic functionalities, such as customs export, import, and transit processes, will now take place across the entire port community in both Antwerp and Zeebrugge. This approach is designed to prevent the development of parallel applications for the same requirements in the future.
“By bringing RX/SeaPort and NxtPort closer together, we are taking an important step towards an integrated digital chain,” said William Demoor, Chief Customer Relations Officer of Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
“This first step is essential within our ambitions to meet the needs for digitalising the entire supply chain. The opportunity is significant, with impact reaching beyond the borders of our port.”
The operational management and technical maintenance of existing functionalities will be integrated into a new company called RX/NxtPort to ensure continuity of specific RX RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) and ferry applications for current users, which will continue to evolve in consultation with relevant user groups.
“By joining forces, we create the scale and investment power needed to realise our digital ambitions. This is how we are building a smart port that not only innovates but also contributes to the success of its customers,” said Marc Adriansens, Chair of APZI.
The organisations say that they will continue to focus on sector-specific requirements through dialogue with the private port community, which will remain responsible for determining the roadmap for the digital platform.
“Belgian Customs and a port community system are the yin and yang of logistics. By digitally bringing together the logistics and customs processes, not only does the handling become more efficient, but customs also gains more insight and control over the logistics process,” said Kristian Vanderwaeren, Administrator-General of Customs and Excise.
