Callao’s port operations exemplify advanced digital coordination through the integration of DP World Callao, APM Terminals, and various maritime associations into the Port Community System (PCS)1. This system enables real-time data sharing among stakeholders, including customs agents, terminal operators, and transport companies. For instance, when a shipment arrives, all relevant data—such as container status and customs clearance—is instantly shared across the PCS. This facilitates coordinated actions, reducing delays, enhancing cargo flow, and ensuring regulatory compliance, ultimately streamlining the port’s supply chain operations.

Exporters and importers are key stakeholders connected to the Port Community System (PCS) for tasks such as tracing and taxation. The PCS integrates these entities primarily through the following functionalities: Customs Declarations, Tracing Shipments and Taxation and Compliance. Here is a table summarizing the tasks handled by the Port Community System (PCS) at each step of the workflow for hinterland transport operators entering a port:

Workflow Step PCS Tasks
1. Pre-Arrival Planning and Booking - Facilitates the electronic booking of transport orders and time slots.
- Manages the submission of transport and cargo documentation.
2. Customs Pre-Clearance - Manages the electronic submission and tracking of customs declarations.
- Notifies transport operators and customs authorities of clearance status.
3. Arrival at Port - Verifies transport order, slot booking, and customs clearance through automated systems.
- Supports the automated check-in process at the port gate.
4. Terminal Operations - Provides real-time updates on cargo status during loading/unloading operations.
- Coordinates operations between the transport operator and terminal operator.
5. Post-Operations and Gate-Out Process - Ensures all documentation is updated and verifies clearance for the vehicle to exit the port.
- Manages the electronic gate-out process.
6. Hinterland Transportation - Continues to track the shipment and provide updates to relevant stakeholders.
- Ensures ongoing communication with the transport operator until delivery.
7. Post-Delivery Reporting and Analytics - Generates reports and analytics on the transport operation’s performance.
- Provides audit trails and performance feedback to stakeholders.

The integration of the Peruvian customs platform VUCE (Ventanilla Única de Comercio Exterior) within PCS is a significant development aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and efficiency in Peru. VUCE can provide enhanced visibility into the status of shipments. Customs authorities can track containers from the point of origin to the destination, allowing for better risk management and more efficient processing. This visibility is crucial for conducting pre-arrival risk assessments and expediting the clearance of goods upon arrival.

The VUCE 2.02 platform has the potential to integrate with TradeLens3 and the Port Community System (PCS) to streamline the export process. For example, in blueberry exports from Callao to the USA under the Peru-USA FTA, VUCE 2.0 is going to facilitate digital submission of documents (e.g., phytosanitary certificates) which are then accessible in real-time via TradeLens. This possible integration leverages the capabilities of blockchain technology to streamline customs processes, improve data accuracy, and increase transparency across the supply chain. This integration again allows for seamless customs processing, efficient port handling, and real-time tracking, ensuring timely and compliant export operations.

Under this evolving softscape, DP World’s Callao Terminal has positively increased its efficiency. Here are some key metrics highlighting these improvements:

  • Increased Container Handling Capacity: The integration of TradeLens, along with recent infrastructure enhancements, has allowed DP World Callao to increase its container handling capacity by 80%, reaching 2.7 million TEUs annually. This significant boost is due to better yard planning and operational efficiency facilitated by real-time data visibility provided by TradeLens.
  • Productivity Gains: There has been a 15% increase in productivity at the South Quay of the Callao port precinct, contributing to a 13% rise in the total TEUs handled in the first seven and a half months of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. This productivity gain is largely attributed to the improved coordination and reduced administrative bottlenecks brought about by the TradeLens platform.
  • Record-Setting Performance: In July 2023, DP World Callao set a new monthly record for TEUs handled, the highest in the history of Peruvian ports. This achievement reflects the enhanced operational efficiency and throughput capabilities enabled by the TradeLens system.

References

  1. Asociación Peruana de Operadores Portuarios (ASPPOR) https://www.asppor.org.pe/2023/07/comport-callao-trabajara-para-elevar/ ↩

  2. VUCE 2.0 project page here ↩

  3. https://www.tradelens.com/ ↩