The IMO has launched a survey with the view to gathering information on the level of implementation and use of Maritime Single Window (MSW) systems to better understand the impact of MSW implementation on the administrative workload of maritime stakeholders and users.
Maritime Single Windows (MSW) are a means of reducing a ship’s reporting burden by enabling information required for a port call to be exchanged once, digitally and efficiently, using harmonised data standards that allow different authorities and systems to interoperate. However, there is a need to test whether MSWs are actually delivering the benefits they were introduced to achieve.
As such, the IMO has launched a survey with the view to gathering information on the level of implementation and use of MSW systems by the end of 2026. It is envisaged that a follow-up survey will be conducted in 2028 to assess developments since 2026 and to better understand the impact of MSW implementation on the administrative workload of maritime stakeholders and users.
The survey is open to all interested stakeholders with experience in the implementation, operation or use of MSW systems. In order to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the analysis, certain questions are mandatory, including those relating to the country concerned and the respondent's organisation type or stakeholder category. The information provided will enable the IMO Secretariat to analyse responses by country and stakeholder group and to identify common trends, challenges and good practices.
The survey seeks to collect the views and experiences of all relevant stakeholders involved in the submission, processing and use of information through MSW systems, including public authorities and private-sector users. The information gathered will support the work of the IMO in identifying common challenges, good practices and opportunities to further improve the implementation and operation of MSW systems.
BIMCO members are encouraged to submit their responses by 30 November 2026.
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