Study launched at IAPH World Ports Conference identifies fragmented information sharing, paper-based processes, and skills shortages as persistent barriers to digital integration

Only five percent of respondents said a Port Community System (PCS) was fully implemented at their port, according to new global research from Kalé Logistics (Kalé).

Launched at the International Association of Ports and Harbors World Ports Conference, the State of Port Digital Readiness & Stakeholder Adoption of Port Community Systems report found half of respondents identified customs as the primary barrier to adoption, while 35 per cent cited other government agencies.

“Ports are facing greater supply chain disruption, congestion, labour volatility, and compliance demands, but technology alone cannot solve these pressures while information remains fragmented between organisations and regulatory systems,” said Vineet Malhotra, Co-Founder and Director, Kalé.

“The next phase of port digitalisation requires policy, people, and technology to move together, with authorities enabling trusted data exchange and ensuring developing markets are not left behind.”

PCS connect public and private organisations across a port through a shared digital environment, allowing data to be securely exchanged and reused to reduce paperwork, congestion, delays, and duplicated processes, while improving cargo visibility and coordination.

The research, combining stakeholder surveys from port authorities, shippers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and government officials, highlights the need for regulatory reform, improved digital skills, and greater collaboration across port communities.

It finds 79 per cent of respondents report that their port does not have a fully operational PCS, while 22 per cent highlighted digital skills gaps as a barrier to adoption, and uptake remains particularly weak in low-income countries.

Customs authorities and freight forwarders also record the lowest willingness to adopt PCS, at 33 per cent, despite their central role in cargo clearance and trade facilitation.

Kalé says wider adoption can give port communities the real time information and coordination needed to manage disruption, improve cargo flows, and build more resilient trade corridors.

Kalé’s digital platforms support more than 75 seaports across 50 countries.