India To Modernise 169-Year-Old Colonial Shipping Law With Bill Of Lading Act 2025

The Lok Sabha has passed the Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856. The bill will update and simplify the legal framework governing shipping documents, making it more relevant to the evolving needs of the shipping industry and international trade.

The existing Bills of Lading Act, 1856, a short three-section law, mainly focused on the transfer of rights and confirmation of goods loaded onto a vessel.

However, with the growth of global trade and advancements in shipping, the government saw the need to introduce a comprehensive and user-friendly law that complies with international practices.

The Bills of Lading Bill 2025, introduced by Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, will rename the law as the Bill of Lading Act 2025.

The government has assured that while the bill modernises the framework, it does not alter the fundamental legal principles of the original act.

It also grants the Central Government the authority to issue directions for the effective implementation of the law and includes a standard repeal and saving clause to ensure smooth transition.

The minister says that this bill is an important step in removing outdated colonial-era laws and bringing India’s maritime regulations in line with global standards.

He said that the bill will help create a more efficient, secure and transparent shipping sector, reducing legal complexities for shippers, carriers, and lawful holders of goods.

The law will also promote smoother business operations, lower litigation risks, and enhance India’s standing in global maritime trade.

The bill is part of an effort to modernise India’s maritime laws and make the country a global leader in shipping and commerce. It is now set to be presented in the Rajya Sabha before being sent for the President’s assent to become law.

Reference: PIB