Blockchain e-certificates of origin platform launched in Singapore

The world's first Blockchain-based platform for electronic certificates of origin (eCOs) has been launched by the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce (SICC) and Singapore-based cross-border trade facilitation solutions provider vCargo Cloud (VCC). The platform represents a quantum leap in processing trade-related documents by hosting information about trade transactions on a tamper-proof distributed ledger system.

As the first chamber in the world to implement Blockchain-based eCOs, SICC seeks to provide its members, trade-related agencies and users of complementary services such as trade financing and insurance with a trade facilitation system that offers higher security, efficiency and flexibility. The launch will see an initial group of users moving to the new system, with remaining users migrating in subsequent phases.

The solution was developed by VCC, SICC's technology partner and a 50.01%-owned subsidiary of DeClout. The platform is expected improve transparency, security and efficiency in authenticating trade documents. It permits instant verification of eCOs and runs on a private Blockchain network that prevents fraud, alterations and third-party interference.

VCC's platform utilises QR codes, allowing eCOs to be scanned using smart phones and then printed. The number of allowable prints is restricted to prevent unauthorised duplicates. This improves efficiency and minimises the costs of verifying COs, removing a major impediment in the process and a frequent cause of high insurance or trade finance costs.

VCC intends to leverage on the Singapore launch to promote the platform globally, beginning with Asian countries that are substantive manufacturing exporters such as Japan, Myanmar and Sri Lanka, using the pay-per-use model.

The launch of the Blockchain-based eCO platform comes amidst the Singapore Government's call for a self-certification regime through the ASEAN Single Window, which aims to expedite freight clearance and reduce manual paperwork across all 10 member countries. This new solution will also strengthen Singapore's position as a global innovation hub and reinforces the city-state's strong commitment to driving the digitalisation of trade to improve productivity.

Victor Mills, Chief Executive of SICC, said: "My team has provided input for the design of a 21st century system which will benefit customers, the chamber and all authorised operators alike. This new eCO system revolutionises what are today still essentially 19th century processes, providing greater security for all users as well as a clear, unambiguous audit trail through the use of Blockchain technology."

Desmond Tay, CEO, VCC commented: "The launch of our smart eCO solution will make VCC the first in the trade and logistics industry to introduce the capability to make our eCOs immutable. This Blockchain capability will be incorporated into other components within our CamelONE cross-border digital platform, making our platform even more secure and robust. As an industry leader with established partnerships and an extensive regional presence, VCC will strive to deliver continual improvements and innovations in our solutions to meet the rising global demand for the digitalisation of trade and logistics processes."

A certificate of origin is an international trade document which certifies that the goods in a specific shipment have been wholly obtained, produced, manufactured or processed in the stated country.