IPCSA has successfully launched its new Port Community Systems (PCS) and Single Window Systems Masterclass, with the pilot programme hosted by SOHAR Port and Freezone in Oman. Held in Muscat from 12–15 May, the four-day course brought together representatives from SOHAR Port and Omani Government Ministries to explore the practical, organisational and technical foundations of successful PCS and Single Window implementations. The initiative was developed by IPCSA in response to growing global demand for digital trade facilitation solutions and a recognised need for greater knowledge and skills across the sector.
The Masterclass was developed by IPCSA in collaboration with consultancy IDOM, drawing on the extensive experience and expertise of IPCSA’s global membership. Delivered by IPCSA Ambassador Hans Rook, IPCSA Secretary-General Nico De Cauwer and IDOM consultant Guillem Manresa Cid, the programme covered stakeholder management, governance and business models, processes and services, as well as IT-related topics such as data ownership, architecture and cybersecurity. Participation was limited to 15 attendees to encourage active discussion, knowledge sharing and interaction between participants and presenters.
The pilot programme received strong support from SOHAR Port, whose CEO Emile Hoogsteden described the Masterclass as a catalyst for deeper collaboration, policy innovation and digital transformation. He highlighted the importance of knowledge exchange, data interoperability and sustainable port ecosystems in building resilient and future-ready logistics hubs. IPCSA Chairman Javier Gallardo said the initiative aims to provide structured, experience-based knowledge and practical insights to both IPCSA members and the wider maritime community. Following the successful pilot in Oman, IPCSA sees the Masterclass as an important new platform for supporting ports, governments and logistics communities at every stage of their digitalisation journey.