IBM Maersk blockchain solution ‘TradeLens’ gets two new Canadian members

The Port of Montreal and Canada Border and Services Agency (CBSA) are joining TradeLens platform – a blockchain solution jointly developed by Maersk and IBM.

Officially announced in August, TradeLens has been designed to enhance the efficiency and security of global trade. It aims to digitize the shipping industry through a secure interface exclusively dedicated to freight transport.

In their August announcement, IBM and Maersk said that 94 organizations were actively involved or agreed to participate on the TradeLens platform as part of the early adopter program. The Port of Montreal and Canada Border and Services Agency (CBSA) are the two newest Canadian members.

John Ossowski, President, CBSA, said that the platform could help create “a singular, trusted digital supply chain for all shipments entering Canada.” He said that the pilot will give an opportunity to find process efficiencies, gain analytical insights, as well as improve data providence, accuracy and targeting capabilities.

“The end result may be a faster and more reliable national supply chain, which could positively impact Canada’s economic output,” Ossowski added.

Jack Mahoney, President of Maersk Canada, said that TradeLens will enable the Port of Montreal to better control delivery and operation schedules, provide easier access to clearance and billing documents and enhance fluidity, efficiency and transparency of international shipping.

“Our work with Maersk has shown that blockchain can be used to transform a vital part of how global trade is conducted as members like the Port of Montreal and CBSA begin to interact more efficiently, securely sharing important transactions through real-time access to shipping data and shipping documents,” Ayman Antoun, President, IBM Canada, said.