Also known as: Supply chain blockchain, DLT in trade
Distributed and immutable ledger technology applied to the international supply chain to guarantee traceability, authenticity, and transparency of goods, customs documents, and certificates of origin from manufacturer to end consumer.
Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology where each transaction is stored in a block cryptographically linked to the previous one, creating an immutable and verifiable history. In international trade, it enables tracking goods from origin to destination, verifying the authenticity of documents and certificates, and creating a shared record among all supply chain participants (manufacturers, carriers, customs, importers).
Organizations such as the WCO (World Customs Organization) and the ICC (International Chamber of Commerce) are promoting blockchain standards for international trade. Projects like TradeLens (Maersk/IBM) and we.trade have demonstrated the potential, though mass adoption still faces interoperability and regulatory challenges.
Supply Chain
An integrated network of organizations, people, activities, information, and resources involved in creating and delivering a product, from raw materials to the end consumer.
DocumentsCertificate of Origin
Document certifying that goods originate in a specific country, required to claim preferential tariff rates under trade agreements.
DocumentsBill of Lading (Ocean)
Maritime transport document serving as a contract of carriage, receipt of goods, and document of title.
TradeUSMCA (T-MEC)
Trade agreement between the United States, Mexico, and Canada that replaced NAFTA in July 2020, governing trade, investment, and intellectual property rules.