Centre implements Port Community System at major ports

Dec 03, 2016: In order to provide electronic connectivity in ports, the Central Government has implemented Port Community System (PCS). This is intended to integrate the electronic flow of trade related documents, information and functions as a centralised hub for ports of India and other stakeholders like shipping lines, agents, surveyors, stevedores, banks, container freight stations, Customs House Agents, importers, exporters, railways, CONCOR, government regulatory agencies, etc. for exchanging electronic messages in a secure manner. All the 12 major ports and six non major ports in India have been integrated online with PCS that cover around 92 per cent of total EXIM trade by volume. The main objectives of the PCS are: • Develop a centralised web-based application, which act as single window, for the port community members, stakeholders to exchange messages electronically in secure fashion. • Reduce transaction time and cost in port business • Achieve paperless regime in port sector • Implement an e-commerce portal for port community This information was given by the Minister of State for Shipping Pon Radhakrishnan in written reply to a question in Lok Sabha.