Global container shipping provider, Zim Integrated Shipping Services, has signed up to the TradeLens digital business platform, a service based on blockchain technology to provide secure shipping data and make global trade more efficient.

ZIM_container_vessel

The service was set up two years ago jointly by the Maersk shipping line and information technology giant IBM, and now has more than 100 members.

Zim said in a statement that by joining TradeLens it could continue with its own digitalisation of processes to achieve efficiencies and cost savings for itself and its customers.

“TradeLens has made great progress in bringing transformation to traditional shipping processes,” 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.”

Zim’s chief information officer, Eyal Ben Amram, 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, and the recent investment in Ladingo, a ground-breaking e-commerce solution”.