ZIM Integrated Shipping Services is the latest member of TradeLens, a blockchain-enabled digital shipping solution jointly developed by A.P. Moller – Maersk and IBM.
The news comes as more than five million shipments have been recorded on TradeLens to date by 60 network members and 100 total ecosystem members.
TradeLens uses blockchain technology to enable trust between multiple trading partners — from carriers to freight forwarders, customs officials, port authorities and more — when transacting in a digitized global trade documentation process.
TradeLens ecosystem members get a single shared view of a transaction without compromising details, privacy or confidentiality and can collaborate more efficiently and with greater certainty through real-time access to shipping data and shipping documents.
By joining TradeLens, ZIM says it can continue its push toward digitizing its processes to enable efficiencies and cost savings by enabling greater transparency and more efficient processes.
Eyal Ben Amram, ZIM CIO, said: “We are very pleased to join TradeLens, as part of our vision to be at the forefront of digital innovation in shipping. ZIM endorses a proactive approach of promoting and investing in innovative digital solutions, such as the pioneering blockchain-based electronic Bill of Lading initiative, in collaboration with Wave Inc, and the recent investment in Ladingo, a ground-breaking e-commerce solution.”
“ZIM will bring a strong ethos of digital innovation to the TradeLens ecosystem and we’re thrilled to welcome their team. TradeLens has made great progress in bringing transformation to traditional shipping processes through technology that enables greater transparency and efficiency,” said Mike White, TradeLens leader for Maersk. “What makes the solution so effective is its ability to deliver these benefits while still allowing carriers like ZIM and others to maintain their competitive advantages. The more carriers and other ecosystem members that join the platform, the closer we come to bringing about a new era in global trade.”
“The addition of ZIM to TradeLens shows exactly why we worked with Maersk to create this solution,” said Daniel Melka, Country General Manager, IBM Israel. “Blockchain networks like TradeLens work best when comprised of a diverse network of participants who work together to affect change for an entire industry, which is what we are seeing happen with TradeLens.”
