The Port of Algeciras and Central America join forces to simplify bilateral trade.

 

In an effort to strengthen trade ties between Europe and Central America, Port of Algeciras hosted a high-level technical meeting this week. Representatives of the SIECA, along with customs officials and logistics experts, have met with the APBA to advance the integration of the Central American Digital Trade Platform (PDCC) with the Port Community System (PCS) from the Algeciras port.

 

"This integration represents a crucial step in optimizing our business processes," he stated. Milton Rivas, Director of Cooperation and Projects at SIECA. "By digitizing and simplifying procedures, we are eliminating barriers and fostering a more fluid and efficient exchange."

 

The project, which has the financial and technical support of the European Union, seeks to create a secure and transparent system for the exchange of information and documents between the exporters and importers from both regions. The implementation of this platform is expected to significantly reduce merchandise inspection times, one of the main obstacles to bilateral trade.

 

SIECA, which includes Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama, represents the fifth largest economy in Latin America and the Caribbean.

 

 

"The Port of Algeciras has positioned itself as a strategic partner for Central America," he noted. Gerardo Landaluce, president of the APBA. "Our geographic location and our world-class infrastructure allow us to act as a bridge between both continents."

 

The relationship between the Port of Algeciras and Central America has been strengthened in recent years, especially with Costa RicaFor a decade, a memorandum of understanding has existed that allows the port of Algeciras to channel 50% of Costa Rican pineapple exports.

 

"Algeciras is a key port for our exports," he explained. Cristian MontielDirector General of Customs of Costa Rica. "The efficiency of their services and their strategic location allow us to reach European markets more quickly and competitively."

 

The digital platform integration project is a further step in the consolidation of this alliance. The implementation of the digital transmission of phytosanitary and zoosanitary certificates is expected to further reduce costs and waiting times for Central American exporters.

 

"We are working to make trade between Central America and the European Union as smooth as possible," he said. José Luis Hormaechea, Director General of the APBA. "This initiative is an example of our commitment to facilitating trade and modernizing our services."

 

This technical meeting is the result of a long process of collaboration that began with the EU-Central America Business Forum held in Algeciras. At that event, the foundations were laid for a strategic alliance that seeks to strengthen trade between the two regions.

 

Trade between Central America and the European Union exceeds €18.000 billion annually, and this figure is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.