Joint paper on inland waterways classification for South America

This joint paper, prepared by the Natural Resources and Infrastructure Division of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean and experts from the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure (PIANC), looks at the benefits of developing a classification of navigable inland waterways in South America. Taking the European classification system as an example, the paper demonstrates the role such a system can play in developing inland navigation and highlights the potential benefits of a South American classification system, including helping to identify and monitor the status of existing waterways; providing a basis for estimating the need for infrastructure investment; facilitating access to financing; providing a common basis for bilateral and regional agreements; and contributing to a more sustainable use of inland waterways. The paper sets out an initial classification proposal, including overall objectives and requirements in terms of quality, the technical and operational classification criteria and monitoring mechanisms. As the process for developing a South American classification system is at an early stage, the aim of the paper is to highlight any strategic and technical issues that should be examined during national and regional discussions to design and implement a regional classification for inland waterways.