A more data-driven approach is being used by the shipping industry to tackle one of its perennial problems – corruption at ports.
The Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN) has converted over a decade of reported corruption incidents into a global operational database to enable shipping companies to identify risks before vessels arrive at port.
With support from the Danish Maritime Fund, the Global Port Integrity Platform (GPIP) is based on more than 70,000 reports from vessel owners and managers. The database now lists some 1,350 ports worldwide.
MACN is not only collecting historical data but also turning the data into practical tools that can be embedded in day-to-day shipping operations.
Information to crews before arrival
The platform aims to help companies to assess corruption risks, prepare crews and make better decisions before a vessel arrives at a port.
“For example, port-specific information can be automatically sent to crew members ahead of arrival, providing them with better visibility of potential risks and helping them prepare for situations they may encounter during port operations.
According to MACN, around 75 organizations are already using the platform’s dashboard tools, while more than 350 shipping companies receive corruption-risk information through its pre-arrival communication systems.
The process is designed to transition corruption intelligence from static reports into the operational environment where it can be utilized by crews and shore-based teams.
“From Data to Action
The maritime sector generates vast amounts of operational data, but has historically not had the structured information to help companies manage corruption risks, said Cecilia Müller Torbrand, CEO of MACN.
The new platform is aimed at bridging that gap by converting reported incidents into intelligence that can drive decisions, protect crews and build integrity across the shipping industry.
MACN also looks to the future of the current platform. The organization is still developing its use of its database and more AI-powered applications are expected.
For shipping companies, that could mean automated risk assessments in the future, and more targeted information being sent directly to vessels as they prepare for port calls.
Technology creates new possibilities
The platform is also being integrated with existing data and technology systems.
Uriel Chareca, Head of Group Data & AI at TORM, said: “By integrating with MACN’s corruption incident database, TORM will be able to turn real world maritime data into actionable intelligence delivered directly to its vessels.
The development reflects a broader trend in shipping where data is increasingly used to manage operational, compliance and integrity risks, as well as to drive efficiency and visibility.
MACN is trying to make corruption intelligence a practical element of daily vessel operations, rather than something companies only look at after an incident, by combining thousands of real-life reports with automated messaging and AI.
