Sanguine Logistics Pvt. Ltd is an ISO 9001:2015 Certified Integrated Logistics Solution Provider & Indian Customs House Licensed Brokerage Company. With AEO Certification confirming our compliant & secure customs clearance processes, we strive to deliver logistics solutions with transparency, efficiency & innovation.
marketing@sanguinelogistics.com
+91 90 439 9950
India Modernizes Shipping Laws: Bills of Lading Bill, 2025
India has taken a significant step in modernizing its maritime trade laws with the passage of the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha. This new legislation replaces the Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856, a colonial-era law that has governed shipping documents for nearly 169 years.
With the global trade landscape evolving rapidly, the need for a modern, efficient and internationally aligned legal framework has become essential. The Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 addresses these challenges by simplifying the language of the law, reorganizing its provisions and eliminating outdated practices, making shipping processes more seamless and business-friendly.
Salient Features of the Bill
🔹 Renaming & Modernization – The Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856 will now be known as the Bills of Lading Act, 2025, incorporating modern legal terminology.
🔹 Simplified & Clear Provisions – The law has been rewritten in a structured and easy-to-understand format, ensuring clarity in shipping transactions.
🔹 Alignment with Global Standards – The bill brings India’s shipping regulations up to speed with international trade norms, ensuring smoother global commerce.
🔹 Government Implementation Power – The new law empowers the Central Government to issue directives to enhance implementation and efficiency.
🔹 Reduction in Legal Risks – By eliminating ambiguity, the law minimizes disputes and litigation risks for businesses, carriers and shippers.
How will it affect trade?
✅ Faster, more transparent shipping documentation
✅ Reduced legal complexities and fewer disputes
✅ Better trade facilitation and ease of doing business
✅ A more competitive Indian shipping sector on a global scale