The Transition of Croatian Seaports into Smart Ports

Currently, the most advanced cargo-related business process management seaport model is a “smart port”, in which all parts of the seaport operations and transportation are closely connected through various networks. Different seaports are in different phases of system implementation that allows uninterrupted data flow and interconnections. For example, some Croatian cargo seaports can be considered “ports in development”, meaning they are currently only trying to simplify business processes. The Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure plays an important role in the development of Croatian seaports, as it has recognized the importance of digitalization and stakeholder connectivity (shippers, freight forwarders, maritime agents, etc.), and has taken concrete measures to achieve digitalization and connectivity. Initially, it is necessary to enable system integration and stakeholder connectivity within the seaport, and subsequently connect the seaports with each other. The first step in the transition of Croatian seaports into smart ports is the development of both the Port Community Systems and the National Single Window. Later on, the goal should be to introduce the appropriate smart technologies, which should result in various benefits e.g., accelerated cargo manipulation.