WILLEMSTAD - On September 17 and 18, 2024, the Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA) hosted a Multistakeholder Seminar on the IMO Maritime Single Window (MSW) at the Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort. The seminar brought together key industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the transformative impact of the MSW on the maritime industry.
During the two-day seminar, participants explored crucial topics such as system landscape terminology, practical case studies of MSW implementations, and the integration of systems and processes from various stakeholders. Keynote speaker Nico de Cauwer, Secretary-General of the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA), shared valuable insights on the opportunities and challenges surrounding the MSW framework. His expertise provided attendees with a clear understanding of the MSW implementation and the benefits it offers.
The seminar was opened by Franklin Sluis, Chief of Staff of the Ministry of Economic Development. In his speech, Mr. Sluis emphasized the strategic importance of the MSW for Curaçao's future, stating: “The Ministry of Economic Development views the implementation of the Maritime Single Window as a crucial milestone in modernizing our port operations. By integrating all stakeholders, the MSW will not only benefit visiting ships but also solidify Curaçao’s position as a maritime center of excellence.”
Since 2017, the Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA) has developed a traffic management system for ships, which is regularly updated to ensure full digitization and efficiency. This system supports mobile devices and allows third parties to request maritime services via an online portal, eliminating paper processes. This step is crucial for creating a fully functioning Maritime Single Window, promoting collaboration within Curaçao's port ecosystem.
Another highlight was the presentation by Mr. Keevan Gipson, Executive Coordinator of the Port of Sint Maarten, who shared Sint Maarten’s experiences with the successful implementation of their own MSW. Mr. Gipson’s insights provided a practical perspective on the benefits of digital transformation for port operations.
The seminar concluded with a Q&A session, where stakeholders discussed the next steps for Curaçao's MSW roadmap. The implementation of the Maritime Single Window is also a top priority within the National Export Strategy (NES) of the Ministry of Economic Development, highlighting its importance in strengthening Curaçao’s competitiveness in global trade.
The Curaçao Ports Authority remains committed to managing and developing the island's ports according to the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability, while fostering innovation and securing Curaçao's role as a key player in international maritime trade.