BIMCO has launched the Seafarer’s Digital Certificates Charter to support wider adoption of digital certification across shipping.
The initiative aims to create a shared framework for secure and interoperable digital seafarer certificates.
BIMCO said the charter encourages the use of digital certification solutions that meet clearly defined criteria.
The organization aims to improve trust, consistency and efficiency as maritime digitalization accelerates.
BIMCO has already secured support from LEDGID, Maritime Passport and Crewdentials as early signatories.
The organization said early participation highlights demand for practical digital solutions across the industry.
The charter remains open to solution providers, flag states and other maritime stakeholders.
BIMCO said signatories from technology providers will also participate in an interoperability pilot scheduled for September.
The pilot will test whether different digital certificate solutions can operate across multiple systems.
The initiative supports the shipping industry’s wider push toward paperless operations.
BIMCO said terms of reference for the pilot will be released later.
The organization also announced a workshop for digital certificate providers on September 17.
The session targets independent providers that support, or plan to support, the IMO Compendium data model for electronic certificates.
By expanding cooperation across the maritime value chain, BIMCO aims to accelerate practical digital certification standards for global shipping.
