A NEW online portal, a joint project of the Panama Embassy in Singapore and Marine Online (S) Pte Ltd (MOL), digitises and simplifies processes for Panama registry and crew endorsement services applications.

Shipowners and crewing agencies can use the new application system, significantly reducing travelling and waiting time normally required for an embassy visit to authenticate certificates. Applicants can submit the applications along with supporting documents.

Upon submission, applicants can make payments, track their application’s progress and receive electronic certificates directly from the Panama Embassy. Application history will be kept for up to seven years.

Unlike arrangements with traditional agents, the new online portal is operated by Marine Online. Documentation is processed directly by the Panama Embassy in Singapore, thus becoming the first and only official online portal for Panama maritime services. Applicants worldwide, especially in areas badly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, can use the portal to apply or renew their certificates.

Luis Alberto Melo, ambassador and consul general of the Republic of Panama to Singapore, said: “In the face of a changing landscape, it is crucial to accelerate our level of services to interoperate for greater optimisation and automation as the next big leap. Our partnership with Marine Online will allow us to enhance our services through the platform and connect us to our customers in real-time. Our future-ready solutions will also enable new opportunities for us to promote our maritime services and maintain our position as the world's leader in the marine industry.”

Marine Online chief executive Yang Ling said: “By unifying artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced eCommerce technologies, we aim to digitalise data and elevate procurement efficiency for sustainable growth in the digital economy for the maritime industry. I am positive that our exclusive partnership with the consul-general embassy of Panama will rejuvenate the maritime shipping space with renewed optimism.” 

Panama, home to the world’s largest registered fleet, attracts shipowners with privileges such as an open registry, tax exemptions, no minimum tonnage requirements, and a strategic position that connects one of the most important marine trade routes, the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Panama headed Lloyd's List’s Top 10 Flag States list in 2019.

In light of rising demand, Panama's Maritime Authority believes it is set to ride the wave towards digitalisation, to spearhead macroeconomic growth for the maritime sector.

With digital transformation underway, MOL is confident it can help reconnect the global maritime industry, with its integrated business platform and future-ready solutions.

Due to the pandemic, businesses need durability to ensure continuity amidst the challenging times. There is resounding sentiment to emerge more robust from the crisis, making it necessary to embrace digital adoption and workforce resilience.

Marine Online, a B2B e-commerce platform for shipping services, includes chartering, bunkering, crewing, port agency, ship supply, ship sale & purchase, and other marine services.

Shipowners, agencies and crews can access the full range of services of the Marine Online Panama Maritime Service Center at: www.marineonline.com/panama using a computer or smartphone.