Hong Kong PCS links logistics data with customs and banks

It linked logistics customs and banking data across 6,000 firms.

Hong Kong’s Port Community System (PCS) provides a single digital platform that integrates cargo tracking, customs clearance, and logistics data, enabling enterprises to manage shipment information and cross-border declarations through one system.

The Transport & Logistics Bureau spearheaded the PCS, which began pilot trials in early 2023 and was launched in January this year, with more than 6,000 enterprises having adopted the system.

The system allows companies to track cargo movements and complete customs clearance processes through a unified interface.

It enables end-to-end shipment visibility, covering cargo receipt, loading, departure, arrival, and customs clearance.

Users can also access real-time information by entering an ocean or air waybill number.

The system connects logistics data with customs clearance systems through application programming interface integration, linking enterprise systems with the China International Trade Single Window, allowing direct access to customs-related data.

The PCS includes a “One-Data-Multiple-Declarations” function that auto-fills shipment information and enables single submissions to both Hong Kong Customs and the China International Trade Single Window, reducing duplicate data entry across systems.

The platform supports real-time alerts on shipping delays and temperature anomalies, allowing users to adjust transport and warehousing operations based on updated shipment conditions.

The system uses blockchain technology to record logistics and customs data, including cargo transfers, document numbers, warehousing, land transport tracking, customs declarations, and operational timestamps.

Recorded data cannot be altered unilaterally, creating a traceable audit record for trade and logistics processes.

The Logistics & Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (LSCM) developed and manages the PCS, which is being rolled out in three phases.

“In the final stage, we will connect and complete end-to-end workflows for multimodal transportation and build a comprehensive digital ecosystem to enable the industry to reap the benefits of artificial intelligence-powered digital services,” said Simon Wong, CEO of LSCM.

Amy Chan, Deputy Secretary for Transport & Logistics, said small- to medium-sized enterprises, such as shipping companies, trading firms, freight forwarders and warehousing companies, are amongst the registrants.

Chan said the system supports trade finance applications, with nine banks in Hong Kong using cargo status data for risk management.

She said the government plans to expand offshore cargo tracking and connect the PCS with international ports and shipping data platforms.

The government has launched the Future Innovative Logistics Acceleration Scheme to encourage adoption of logistics data platforms, including the PCS, amongst logistics enterprises.