In a move to bolster maritime security and combat the drug trade, Belgium and the Netherlands have joined forces to test so-called 'smart seals' on shipping containers, the Ministry of Justice stated in a press release.
The initiative was announced during a workshop at Antwerp's Linkeroever border inspection post, attended by Belgium's Justice and North Sea Minister, Vincent Van Quickenborne, and Finance Minister Vincent Van Peteghem, as well as Dutch Ambassador Pieter Jan Kleiweg de Zwaan.
"The maritime sector is the engine of a country's prosperity but is vulnerable to abuse by drug cartels," said Van Quickenborne. "Smart seals on containers can be equipped with technologies such as GPS, RFID, and sensors to enable real-time monitoring. This will help to track the location of containers and detect any unauthorised access or manipulation, which is crucial in the fight against narcoterrorism."
The smart seals are advanced monitoring devices fitted with sensors that collect data such as temperature, humidity, vibrations and location. This technology is intended to help provide more data on global shipping, as well as prevent interference by criminal gangs. Large quantities of cocaine bound for the port of Antwerp are found in shipping containers each year.
"These devices will set a new standard of efficiency and security for shipping companies," added Van Peteghem. "Customs are already making impressive strides in stopping large quantities of cocaine at the border. However, we must not be blind to the reality that significant amounts still slip through the cracks. Improved risk analysis through information collection is vital for targeted operations."
Getting tough on the drug trade
This collaborative effort follows an agreement signed in February between Belgium, the Netherlands, and five major shipping companies operating in the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp. The agreement aims to strengthen various aspects of maritime security, including the use of smart containers, stringent HR policies, and enhanced information exchange.
The workshop at Linkeroever served as a platform for experts from customs, police, and shipping companies to explore the technical possibilities offered by these smart seals and smart containers.
"The workshop brings to life the agreements made between public and private sectors, helping us make well-informed decisions to secure cargo," said Van Peteghem.
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The maritime sector is grappling with the challenges posed by the drugs trade. Cocaine continues to flow through the port of Antwerp and seizures occur frequently. In the first half of 2023, 43.34 tonnes of cocaine were intercepted on the way to Belgium.
It is hoped that the introduction of the smart seals will offer a promising solution to enhance security, efficiency and transparency in container transport worldwide.
