Cook Islands Ports Authority to digitise cargo operations with PortConnect

THE COOK Islands Ports Authority (CIPA) has signed an agreement with New Zealand company PortConnect to consolidate its cargo records in a single digital system.

The authority will use PortConnect’s Break Bulk Management System (BBMS) to gather and reconcile vessel exchange data from ports, shipping lines and stevedores.

The software includes cargo tracking, document management and compliance monitoring functions. It is expected to reduce manual data entry and improve access to cargo records across CIPA’s operations.

CIPA chief executive officer Okesene Moananu said the partnership would support port productivity and service reliability.

“Ports are vital for our island nation, and our partnership with PortConnect will help make our ports more efficient, resilient and reliable,” Mr Moananu said.

“It will improve our productivity and help us provide a better service for the people of the Cook Islands. We look forward to working with PortConnect to make this a reality.”

Centralising cargo information is expected to help port teams identify discrepancies earlier, reconcile records and coordinate operational work.

For shipping lines, agents, importers, exporters and transport operators, more consistent cargo information is expected to support planning and communication with the port. Better visibility of cargo status could also help coordinate collections and onward transport while reducing time spent seeking updates.

PortConnect commercial manager Michele Hansen said the agreement established a partnership focused on more efficient port processes and a better-connected supply chain.

Ms Hansen said PortConnect would draw on its experience working with New Zealand ports to support CIPA’s digital cargo management.

“We’re delighted that the Cook Islands Port Authority has chosen to trust PortConnect to help with its digital transformation,” Ms Hansen said.

“We look forward to using the experience we’ve gained from working with New Zealand ports to give CIPA the tools they need to continue to improve their services.”