India Overhauls Maritime Trade Laws with New Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill 2025

In a significant legislative update, the Indian Parliament has passed The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill 2025, amid a backdrop of opposition protests focused on an unrelated issue. The new bill repeals the pre-independence Act of 1925 and seeks to streamline maritime trade regulations, providing clarity and efficiency for Indian exporters and importers.

Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, emphasized that this legislative overhaul is part of the government's broader initiative to eradicate colonial-era laws, thereby easing business operations. The bill realigns domestic maritime law with international standards, such as the Hague-Visby Rules, mirroring practices in nations like the United Kingdom.

The passage of the bill, however, was not without contention. Opposition leaders demanded discourse on a separate, pressing issue, but were overruled in the House. Despite these disruptions, the new legislation passed, promising enhanced commercial efficiency, reduced litigation risks, and greater government accountability in maritime commerce.

(With inputs from agencies.)