The Port of Rotterdam Authority has announced a project that aims to leverage blockchain technology to make the supply chain in the port paperless and facilitate immediate handling and payment of port dues.

The project would be conducted in collaboration with CargoLedger, a blockchain solutions provider for the logistics industry. The initiative is a part of the port’s annual PortXL innovation accelerator.

In a press release dated June 14, the Port of Rotterdam Authority announced that it has signed partnership agreements with four recent participants in the annual PortXL innovation programme. This includes the deal with CargoLedger which will focus on developing blockchain applications for freight tracking.

“CargoLedger develops blockchain-based solutions that make the handling and dispatch of cargo easier, more transparent and safe. Shipments are labelled and dispatched. After scanning the label, the recipient immediately gains insight into a variety of cargo conditions, including the shipment’s temperature, humidity level and state,” the press release states.

In September 2017, the Municipality of Rotterdam and the Port of Rotterdam Authority jointly launched BlockLab – a field lab for the development of concrete applications and solutions based on blockchain technology. Last month, four consortia developed a working prototype in which blockchain technology is used for the energy market, with support from and under the direction of Blocklab.