When GSBN first formed, it seemed to present competition and a rival service to the Maersk and IBM-led blockchain initiative TradeLens. The two platforms, however, are not mutually exclusive, as some container lines have signed on to both initiatives. Hapag-Lloyd is among the top 10 carriers joining GSBN and TradeLens. "We take a look at where it makes the most sense to get involved," a spokesperson told Supply Chain Dive when asked what value the carrier sees in joining both blockchain platforms. "Currently, GSBN and TradeLens are the two initiatives with the largest number of participants and where we see the best opportunities to develop blockchain in container logistics." The German carrier was involved in talks to establish GSBN "from the very beginning," the spokesperson said, and joined TradeLens earlier this month. Both platforms describe visibility and secure data exchange as some of the benefits of their solutions. With the two initiatives still in the pilot phase (GSBN plans to become operational early next year, and TradeLens by the end of this year), it's difficult to know at this point how exactly either one will work and how they differ. A "winner" among the ocean freight blockchain platforms may not emerge, especially if additional carriers decide to sign on to both initiatives — or if other solutions come about. What's clear is carriers see value in blockchain technology for their operations. ZIM has already used blockchain software to create and exchange bills of lading. Visibility has often been a point of contention between shippers and ocean carriers, with a lack of transparency spiraling into further supply chain challenges, such as long dwell times and demurrage fees. The visibility blockchain promises could solve some of these longstanding supply chain issues.
Container shipping companies CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd and Cosco have joined the Global Shipping Business Network (GSBN) blockchain project. Pilot schemes for the project are under way and GSBN members say it will launch in 2020. Software is being supplied by CargoSmart. The GSN’s mission statement says that “Blockchains can be used to improve efficiency of global supply chains, reduce costs and increase transparency while reducing risks associated with international trade.” GSBN is the second such large network to be established. Shipping company Maersk and IBM have launched the TradeLens blockchain platform, expected to be live by the end of 2019. Some shipping companies, including Hapag-Lloyd, have joined both.