New requirements for electronic exchange of data for the clearance of ships become effective from 9 April 2019. To help prepare for this, a National Seminar on Facilitation of Maritime Traffic was held in Djibouti (22-24 January). The workshop raised awareness of the new requirements for participants from ministries with responsibilities in the clearance of ships, cargo, crew and passengers at ports of Djibouti, and private stakeholders. The event addressed the benefits of using a maritime single window and electronic data exchange; and also addressed other facilitation issues, including stowaways and persons rescued at sea. The seminar was organized by IMO and the Direction des Affaires Maritimes of Djibouti.