Georgia is implementing a Port Community System (PCS) in its seaports to improve the management and automation of their facilities and logistics processes.
Port Community System: The PCS is an electronic platform that connects various port management systems, ensuring a secure and fast exchange of information between the stakeholders – the port, the public and private sectors.
The implementation process of the PCS is actively underway, with the involvement of both government agencies and private sector representatives. Marines, terminals, prayer stations, ship’s agents, expeditors and other interested parties are directly involved in the work process.
The working group members have held several operational meetings, discussing each operation, the workflow, and the risks associated with its delays.
A complete list of documents currently used by the organizations involved has been prepared. Productive work visits were also made at Supsi Terminals, Batumi and Poti ports, where they learned about ongoing processes and operations.
The PCS implementation stage in Georgian seaports started in October 2023 and is planned to be completed by the end of 2025. The international company Actual IT provides system software and material support, specializing in developing innovative projects and digital technologies.
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) financed the project and was supported by the Georgia Investors Council Secretariat.
The introduction of the PCS in Georgian seaports is expected to bring many benefits, such as facilitating inter-agency coordination, reducing administrative requirements and bureaucracy, enhancing transparency and traceability, and improving the service quality and competitiveness of the seaports.
The PCS is also aligned with the concept of the Physical Internet, which seeks new logistics solutions that require integration and interoperability between partners in the supply chain, including maritime and land transport.
The PCS is a common platform in many European and world ports, such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg, Singapore, and Dubai. The PCS supports creating a network of shipping agents, shippers, freight forwarders, transporters, terminals, logistics platforms, and public entities. The PCS focuses on service level, partner networks, maritime, freight, logistical, and advanced port services.
Georgia aims to become a regional hub for trade and transport, and implementing the PCS in its seaports is a significant step towards achieving this goal. The PCS will help to improve the efficiency and performance of the ports and thus contribute to the economic growth and development of the country.
