The Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA) organized the Multistakeholder Seminar on the IMO Maritime Single Window (MSW)
Published on September 19, 2024
The Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA) organized the Multistakeholder Seminar on the IMO Maritime Single Window (MSW).The Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA) organized the Multistakeholder Seminar on the IMO Maritime Single Window (MSW) from September 17 to 18, 2024, at the Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort. This seminar gathered key industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the transformative impact of the MSW on the maritime industry.
Over the course of the two-day seminar, participants explored key topics such as system landscape terminology, practical case studies of MSW implementation, and the integration of various stakeholders’ systems and processes. Keynote speaker Mr. 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 how to implement the MSW and leverage its benefits.
The seminar was opened by Mr. Franklin Sluis, Head of the Cabinet of the Ministry of Economic Development. Mr. Franklin Sluis highlighted the strategic importance of the MSW for Curaçao’s future during his address, 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 vessels but also secure Curaçao’s position as a hub of maritime excellence.”
Since 2017, CPA has pioneered a vessel traffic management system, frequently updating it to ensure full digitalization and efficiency. This system supports mobile devices and enables third parties to request maritime services through an online portal, eliminating the need for paper processes. This initiative is a vital step toward creating a fully functional Maritime Single Window, fostering enhanced collaboration across Curaçao’s port ecosystem.
Another highlight was the testimonial of Mr. Keevan Gipson, Executive Coordinator from the Port of St. Maarten, who shared St. Maarten’s experience in successfully implementing its own MSW. Mr. Gipson’s insights offered a real-world perspective on the benefits of digital transformation for port operations.
The seminar concluded with a Q&A session where stakeholders discussed the next steps in Curaçao’s MSW roadmap. The implementation of the Maritime Single Window is also a top priority within the Ministry of Economic Development’s National Export Strategy (NES), signaling its significance in enhancing Curaçao’s competitiveness in global trade.
The Curaçao Ports Authority remains committed to managing and developing the island’s ports to the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability, while driving innovation and securing Curaçao’s role as a key player in international maritime trade.