ANNAPOLIS, Md., June 21, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — TRACE International, the world’s leading anti-bribery standard setting organization, today announced the launch of a program as part of its Certify the World campaign to support commercial transparency in the shipping and maritime industries. In collaboration with its partner, DA-Desk, the world’s largest independent provider of port cost management services, TRACE will provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with TRACEcertification, an internationally recognized due diligence review and compliance credential, at no cost for one year.  Last year, TRACE launched its Certify the World campaign in Ghana in partnership with PYXEREA global, providing TRACE certified due diligence and anti-bribery training to over 100 local companies. 

Companies that successfully complete TRACE certified due diligence will serve as valued business partners for ship owners, charterers, and operators seeking to do business with shipping agents who share their commitment to commercial transparency.

“While the small bribes routinely solicited in the shipping supply chain may appear harmless, they add up to millions of dollars over time. This program increases transparency in the supply chain and allows shipping entities to keep compliance costs low while meeting a high international standard and gaining a competitive advantage,” said TRACE President Alexandra Wrage.

“Companies relying on the shipping industry to carry goods are becoming more aware of the threat of corruption within their transport chains,” said Felix Antero, DA-Desk General Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer. “The opportunity being offered by TRACE to our customers’ global network of SME port agents allows these agents to demonstrate a firm commitment to anti-corruption.”

Entities participating in this program will be invited to attend an anti-bribery training workshop on September 19, 2016, hosted by TRACE International and DA-Desk in Dubai.  Completion of anti-bribery training is a requirement of TRACE certified due diligence.

The global network of TRACE partnerships enables TRACE to better support small and medium-sized enterprises and address the heightened need for anti-bribery compliance services worldwide…

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