Platform8’s Successful Participation in the Belgian Economic Mission to Australia

In the heart of Australia’s largest container and liquid bulk port, Sydney’s Port Botany, a remarkable event unfolded as Platform8 joined the Belgian Economic Mission to Australia.

Represented by Chief Customer and Revenue Officer,  Roberto Brady, Platform8, in collaboration with its Belgium-based partners at NxtPort International, embarked on a journey of innovation, collaboration, and digital transformation. The mission aimed to strengthen the bonds between Belgium and Australia while showcasing groundbreaking technology that promises to revolutionise the maritime industry.

The Royal Reception

The trade mission began on a regal note with a royal reception on Sydney Harbour. In the presence of HRH Princess Astrid of Belgium, Belgium Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Hadja Lahbib, and Flanders Minister of Finance, HE Matthias Diependaele, the stage was set for a remarkable demonstration of Belgian excellence. The event highlighted the enduring relationship between Australia and Belgium, a connection that traces its roots back to the First World War and continues to flourish.

A Visit to NSW Ports

A pivotal moment of the trade mission was the visit to the offices of NSW Ports at Port Botany, where the Platform8 team and Belgian delegates were graciously hosted by the NSW Ports team. CEO Marika Calfas and CFO Andrew Lincoln spearheaded the discussion, shedding light on the digital aspirations of the Ports and the collaborative endeavours with Platform8 and NxtPort International.

Wayne Ashton and Joshua Davidson, key members of the NSW team, conducted a demonstration of the Smartflow ISGOTT digital solution, a system implemented earlier in the year for use by petrochemical terminal operators. This demonstration underscored the potential of digitalisation in port operations and the role Platform8 and NxtPort International are playing in bringing this innovation to life.  

To the NSW Ports team, we extend our gratitude for opening your doors to the delegation. We consider ourselves fortunate to have such exceptional customers and deeply appreciate your support of Platform8.

Platform8’s participation in the Belgian Economic Mission to Australia exemplifies the power of innovation and collaboration

Unlocking Digital Transformation: Throughout the mission, the Platform8 team had the privilege of engaging with other Australian Ports, who expressed a strong desire to embark on a digital transformation journey. They recognised the immense value that Platform8 brings to the table, with their extensive experience in the port sector and digitalisation of port ecosystems.

Partnerships and Collaborations: Platform8’s participation in the Belgian Economic Mission to Australia exemplifies the power of innovation and collaboration. The partnership with NxtPort International has already led to remarkable progress. The NxtPort data exchange platform, developed by a tech spin-out of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, has been expanding globally, with offices in key locations, including Houston, Singapore, and Auckland, in collaboration with Platform8. The deployment of NxtPort’s data sharing platform in Oceania, particularly in NSW Ports, has created a digital port community in Australia. This achievement showcases the scalability and impact of Belgian and Flemish technology.

A Sustainable Future: Platform8, with its expert team, is committed to bringing this groundbreaking technology to businesses across Australia and New Zealand. The aim is to empower businesses to optimise their operations, accelerate their return on investment, and contribute to a more sustainable future. 

The Belgian Economic Mission to Australia was a resounding success, underscoring the power of innovation, collaboration, and the potential for digital transformation in the maritime industry. Platform8, alongside its partners at NxtPort International, is at the forefront of this transformative journey, offering solutions that enhance both financial performance and environmental sustainability.

The trade mission has further strengthened the bonds between Belgium and Australia, setting the stage for a brighter, more innovative future in technological advancement and trade.

Contact us at hello@platform8.io to learn more!

About Platform8

Platform8 enables the future of sustainable supply chains. We believe that by connecting digital communities and enabling them to make decisions beyond just economics, they could drive lasting change in the way we do business. This belief led to the creation of Platform8.