Global trade is going digital. The next step is making sure the digital record matches the physical goods.
The paper problem
International trade still depends heavily on paper documents such as bills of lading, invoices and certificates of origin. Paper is slow, easy to lose and possible to forge.
Electronic transferable records
Legal frameworks now recognize electronic versions of these documents. The UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (2017) provides a template that countries can adopt, and the United Kingdom’s Electronic Trade Documents Act 2023 gave electronic trade documents the same legal effect as paper.
The remaining gap
A digital document is only as good as its link to reality. If the goods, the parties or the handoffs cannot be verified, a perfect electronic record can still describe the wrong cargo.
Linking documents to proof
- Authenticated goods tied to verified digital twins.
- Verified parties who issue and endorse documents.
- Authenticated handoffs forming a chain of custody.
- Pre-verified data that helps customs clear trusted cargo faster.
How VAI helps
VAI links electronic trade documents to authenticated goods, parties and handoffs, and is designed to integrate with existing port and carrier systems. Explore VAI for trade.