- India’s Parliament approved the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2025 and the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025 on September 3, marking a historic step for maritime reform.
- The Merchant Shipping Bill modernises governance, improves safety, and aligns India with international standards.
- The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill adopts Hague-Visby Rules, replacing colonial-era legislation to simplify trade laws and enhance transparency.
The Lok Sabha passed the Merchant Shipping Bill, replacing the long-standing Merchant Shipping Act of 1958. The updated legislation introduces a modern framework that strengthens governance, improves safety and environmental protections, and enhances seafarer welfare.The bill spans 16 Parts and 325 clauses, designed to ease compliance, promote Indian shipping, and boost global competitiveness. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal hailed it as a vital reform, noting that the outdated and fragmented law has now been replaced with one aligned to global best practices.
Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025
On the same day, the Rajya Sabha cleared the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, which repeals the century-old Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925. By adopting the internationally recognised Hague-Visby Rules, the new law simplifies maritime trade laws, reduces litigation risks, and enhances transparency in cargo movement.
Union Minister of State Shantanu Thakur emphasised that the bill replaces colonial-era legislation with a business-friendly framework, supporting India’s participation in global trade agreements, including the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the UK.
Political and Industry Reactions
Both bills enjoyed broad parliamentary support, though some Rajya Sabha members voiced concerns over maritime security and smuggling risks. The government responded by assuring that robust legal and operational safeguards are in place.
Union Minister Sonowal described the passage of the two bills on the same day as a historic moment that underscores the government’s determination to modernise India’s shipping sector and strengthen its role in global maritime trade.
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Source: Marine Insight
