Abu Dhabi Ports Subsidiary Tests International Blockchain Pilot with Port of Antwerp

A subsidiary of the major U.A.E. seaport operator Abu Dhabi Ports has launched an international blockchain pilot with the Port of Antwerp, global shipping news agency Hellenic Shipping News reports Oct. 15.

Following a Memorandum of Understanding signed between Abu Dhabi Ports subsidiary Maqta Gateway and the Port of Antwerp, the companies will run a pilot of a blockchain project called Silsal.

The pilot will test the potential benefits of blockchain technology, such as exchange, identification, and verification of cargo documents and certificates between the respective ports.

Headquartered in the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi Ports company holds, manages and operates 11 ports and terminals in the U.A.E. and Guinea.

The national maritime giant reportedly contributes 3.6 percent of Abu Dhabi's non-oil GDP growth.

The CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports Mohamed Juma Al commented that the recent pilot with "World-class international partners" instends to generate "Fast, reliable, and secure" operations in the industry.

He also added that Abu Dhabi Ports will "Continue to work towards using blockchain," as well as other technologies in Abu Dhabi to "Transform the Emirate's trade and logistics sectors."

On Oct. 3, one of biggest ports of Spain announced plans to build a blockchain-powered "Smart port" in the city of Valencia.

The new technologies such as blockchain and big data are reportedly expected to reduce costs and time spent on maintenance, as well as to optimize global resource distribution.

In mid-September, the U.K.'s major port operator Associated British Ports signed a contract with digital logistics operator Marine Transport International to work on a blockchain-powered system of port logistics.