The UNECE 18th International Capacity-Building Seminar on Trade and Transport Facilitation along Trans-Caspian Corridor took place in hybrid format on 10-11 March 2025 in Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan and online with participation from the PS IGC TRACECA

The Seminar was focused on the digitalization of multimodal data and document exchange along the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, using United Nations legal instruments and standards. The main objective was to discuss the port-to-port data exchange across the Caspian Sea and how to tackle the problem of fragmentation of digitalization efforts in supply chains along the Trans-Caspian corridor and other SPECA corridors.

Implementation of UN/CEFACT standards for digitalization of international supply chains was highlighted as a viable solution to achieve seamless electronic exchange of data among different trade and transport stakeholders and ensure interoperability. The SPECA multimodal digitalization roadmap was reflected, including the concept, implementation status, and activities on port-to-port data exchange in the Trans-Caspian corridor. The seminar discussed the concept of ports as multimodal exchange hubs for data on cargo in digital corridors (and relations to initiatives for development of national platforms that may interact on a cross-border level).

The representative of the PS IGC TRACECA presented the key elements of the eCIM/SMGS CN pilot project, such as the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the railways of Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Türkiye, and Ukraine in 2023, the guidance provided by the railway organizations, coordination of the working groups, development of eCIM/SMGS CN digital prototype, and organization of virtual testing. The need for the legal base (new draft Agreement) was elaborated as well as suggested technology for interactions in a phased approach. The potential for linking port-to-port data exchange with railways’ IT systems was discussed.

It was suggested to carry out a survey with the ports and railways along the Trans-Caspian Corridor to explore existing electronic interactions and potential future linkages of the railways’ IT systems with ports (and maritime operators). Such railway-to-port electronic interaction should be based on UN CEFACT standards and used in a manner that optimizes port, maritime, and railway operations when the mode of transport changes.