What is the “maritime single window” and how is it implemented? A new free-to-access e-learning course has been launched on IMO’s e-learning platform to explain. From 1 January 2024, it will be mandatory under the FAL Convention for ports around the world to enable the provision of all the information required on ships’ arrival at a port, their stay and their departure to a "single window". The idea of a single-entry point is to avoid duplication in the submission of data, and to maximise the efficiency of maritime and port administrative procedures. Read more information here.
The "Introductory e-learning course on implementation of the maritime single window (self-paced e-learning)" is based on the IMO Guidelines for setting up a maritime single window (FAL.5-Circ.42-Rev.3) and developed in collaboration with the World Maritime University (WMU) under IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP). The course elaborates on key aspects of the planning, implementation and operation of an MSW and provides an overview of available resources as well as case studies. In addition, the course aims to provide a good understanding of the importance of facilitation in maritime trade, and covers the concepts of electronic data exchange and the MSW in the context of ship reporting related to ships’ arrival at, their stay in and their departure from port. There are six modules.
Currently available in English, the course can be found on the IMO Learning Management System (LMS) platform which is accessed through the IMO website or via this link: IMO e-Learning. (To access IMO e-Learning courses on the LMS platform you need to register for an IMO web account via the IMO website.) The course can be paused and re-started at any time. After successfully completing it, participants can download and print a certificate of completion.
Distance learning is key for IMO to meet changing educational needs in the maritime industry. Students and maritime professionals around the world have the chance to boost their understanding of key maritime issues with a series of courses through the IMO e-learning platform.
Member States and international organizations are invited to disseminate information about the course to all interested parties.