IMO presses ahead with maritime digitalisation strategy

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has come up with a work plan to get a maritime digitalisation strategy adopted by the IMO Assembly by the end of 2027. 

“The cross-cutting strategy will span different areas of IMO’s work, fostering a fully interconnected, harmonized and automated global maritime sector,” the IMO stated in a release. 

A correspondence group will work over the coming year to identify existing and emerging technologies, standards and methodologies that can support maritime digitalisation, while ensuring alignment across IMO’s various committees with a report due next year, before a final submission is made to the assembly session scheduled for the end of 2027. 

IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez emphasised the transformative potential of cutting-edge technologies such as AI and autonomous navigation, while recognising related challenges, including cybersecurity risks and the global digital divide. 

Dominguez said the new strategy will help integrate vessels and ports, improve logistics and optimise routes, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.