From paper to digital – the transformation of global trade

A long era of paper-based processes in international trade is coming to an end. For decades, standardized documents have ensured reliability, but they have also slowed down speed and efficiency. According to the International Chamber of Commerce, around 90 percent of global trade is still conducted on paper – a costly, error-prone, and slow process. Although digitization is hampered by differing legal requirements in different countries, the need is clear: the digital age requires a structured transition to paperless trade processes. Companies that shape this change early on will secure clear advantages.

The white paper “Creating competitive advantages through paperless trade – the huge potential of going digital,” which we developed in collaboration with the International Chamber of Commerce, highlights the potential of digital trade documents. Paperless processes accelerate transactions, lower costs, and reduce sources of error. Digital documents improve traceability, reduce manual processing steps, and increase security. This results in faster coordination, better data utilization, and more informed decision-making along the supply chain.

A consistent digital document flow creates the basis for reliably managing complex processes, integrating technological developments, and building robust supply chains for the long term. Uniform data standards also facilitate cooperation between all parties involved – from customs authorities and logistics service providers to international partners.