FG Urged To Implement Cargo-Tracking Note At Nigerian Seaports
By Frederick Wright
The Federal Government has been urged to immediately consider the implementation of the Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) in a manner that would not add to the cost of doing business at the nation’s seaports.
The Sea Empowerment and Research Center (SEREC), in a statement by its Head of Research, Eugene Nweke, said the CTN is a crucial consideration, as the goal is to facilitate trade, not to create more barriers or expenses to the shippers.
He stated that Electronic CTNs are becoming increasingly popular, as they provide a more efficient and secure way to track and manage cargo.
He said: “Presently, through the Nigeria Shippers Council, the Nigerian government has approved the deployment of electronic cargo tracking notes for port operations, which is a significant step forward. Expectedly, the intention is to reduce delays in cargo shipment and cut costs for importers, by making the process more efficient and transparent, which is a win-win for everyone involved.
“Additionally, the reintroduction of electronic cargo tracking notes is also seen as a way to curb insecurity and improve trade facilitation. By providing an accurate and reliable system in place, ports can better track and manage cargo, reducing the risk of theft, loss, or damage. This, in turn, can help to increase trust and confidence in the trade process, making it more attractive to businesses and investors.
“Unfortunately, the implementation of this approved modest industry trade security and facilitation tools seem to be delayed for reasons not communicated to the industry stakeholders,” he stated.
He therefore called on the Federal Government, especially, the Minister of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to support the Nigeria Shippers Council, now the industry economic regulator to flag off the commencement of the Cargo Tracking Note implementation without further delays for port operational efficiency sake.
Nweke however, emphasized that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council has the onerous task to introduce and manage the system in a manner that would not add to the cost of doing business at the ports.
He said the cargo tracking note is a relevant document in the international trade and port security system, even with the introduction of modern trade facilitation tools. It provides a standardized way of tracking and managing cargo, ensuring that it is properly declared, cleared, and released.
In shipping operations, the CTN remains a critical component of shipping operations and industry, providing a standardized way to track and manage cargo, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and mitigate risks associated with cargo transportation
Besides, he said the CTN provides shippers with a unique identifier for their cargo, allowing them to track their shipments and ensure that they are properly declared and cleared through customs, adding that this helps to reduce the risk of delays, fines, and penalties associated with non-compliance.
