Rachid Tahri

PRESIDENT, ASSOCIATION OF FREIGHT FORWARDING OF MOROCCO (AFFM)

How do you work with PORTNET.S.A, and what was the impact of digitalization for you?

We were always on the path to digitalization, but COVID-19 accelerated the process. We all implemented digitalization at various levels: some were able to fully integrate PortNet, while others could just integrate a part of the module. During the pandemic, integrating PortNet became vital, helping us work without having to worry about needless traveling or paperwork. We are now more than 70% digitalized thanks to the PortNet platform and the integration of several applications. Customs, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Health have mostly made the switch to digital. Literally, we are seeing fewer clients today. We have been able to tackle not only the COVID-19 issues, but also the speed issues, thanks to digitalization. Without digitalization, the Port of Casablanca would have faced major blockages due to supply issues.

What are your priorities for the next six to 12 months?

The association’s goal is to achieve complete digitalization. Moreover, the Moroccan Agency for the Development of Logistics Activities (AMDL) financed a part of our higher logistics and digitalization. This product is 70% insured. It offers multiple products: supply chain digitalization, training, and operational performance. The product is progressing with this support and the motivation of COVID-19. In terms of digitalization, we have made great progress. We must, however, achieve global levels of digitalization. Online payments should be completely digitalized, and we should aspire for zero paper transactions. With our partners, we could achieve global digitalization; this is what we are aiming for.