Digitalisation of customs procedures in the Port of Bari, Italy
The Italian Customs and Monopoly Agency, in cooperation with the Port Authority of Bari, is using innovative digital technology to simplify and streamline customs and tax and procedures. The automated system allows easier transport through the port, boosting the region’s competitiveness.
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A schematic representation of how technology is helping customs officials track cargo through the Port of Bari. ©Agenzia delle dogane e dei monopoli (2018)
" The EU-funded ‘Digitalisation of customs procedures in the port of Bari’ project simplifies customs procedures for economic operators and optimises the port’s logistic processes to support Apulia’s competitiveness and to reduce the environmental impact of the port activities on Bari’s urban area. "
The port of Bari is in the Apulia region of southeast Italy. One of the largest ports on the Adriatic, it is the main gateway from Europe to the Balkan peninsula and the Middle East.
The digitalisation project aims to streamline the exchange of information between the Italian Customs and Monopoly Agency and Bari’s Port Authority to track and trace the freight in the port, to introduce automated and remote controls at gates, and to increase security levels. The solution is based on ‘Internet of things’ (IoT) technologies.
The project is being carried out by the government agency for customs and monopolies (ADM) and the port system authorities, with the support of the European Regional Development Fund. It is complementary to a project carried out by the port authority to digitalise logistics processes and improve interoperability with the customs agency.
Automated checks
When a truck carrying a container passes through the port entrance gates, a camera reads the truck’s licence plate. This is transferred to the customs authority, which automatically issues a unique IoT code to the truck; digital information which is simultaneously transmitted to the different actors via the interoperable information systems AIDA (Customs Information System) and GAIA (Port Community System). The freight’s movements in the port can now be monitored automatically.
Upon entering the embarkation zone, the system sends a barcode linked to the IoT directly to customs officers. This code provides access to the digital information about the vehicle and container, ensuring speedier authorisation. At the terminal, the transfer of the container to the cargo ship is transmitted to GAIA, which confirms embarkation to customs, and AIDA, which confirms the customs status of the goods. Customs and finance officers can efficiently confirm the conformity of the shipment using the digital information displayed on their tablets. The Coast Guard Authority then confirms the ship’s departure through the same interoperable system. The same systems ensure smooth procedures for controlled entry of imports into the European Union via the port.
Economic boost
The solution guarantees a higher level of security and increases the capacity of the customs service to carry out inspections, speeding up embarkation and disembarkation procedures. In addition, port taxes can be paid online via the customs agency’s web portal.
By enhancing security and improving the port cycle, the digital solutions will have a positive impact on the development of the port and the region. The system is being progressively implemented in other ports in the region. Its flexibility allows for easy integration with the local security systems.
The project is part of the National Infrastructure and Networks programme 2014-2020, which aims to improve the transport of people and goods in the south of Italy, improving the region’s competitiveness. The digitalisation process will enable better connections with other ports, and with road, rail and inland waterways. This contributes to the objectives of the Trans-European Transport Network, particularly the Scandinavian-Mediterranean corridor, a crucial north-south axis for the European economy.
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Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Digitalisation of procedures in the Port of Bari – ADM is EUR 1 928 670, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 1 445 650 through the “National Operational Programme on Infrastructures and Networks” for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Transport and energy networks”.
Draft date
08/01/2020Social media
