The Lok Sabha has passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024, bringing a major update to India’s shipping laws. This new law replaces a 99-year-old colonial-era act and makes shipping rules clearer, simpler, and more in line with modern trade needs.
Introduced by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the bill reduces legal confusion, improves business transparency, and helps exporters and importers operate more smoothly. It also allows the government to quickly adapt to international shipping rules while ensuring proper oversight.
Additionally, the government introduced the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, which focuses on better port management and development. The bill:
- Empowering state authorities to manage smaller ports.
- Encourages better use of India’s coastline for trade.
- Create a new council to guide port growth and efficiency.
Sonowal said these changes will strengthen India’s shipping sector, attract more investments, and improve global trade connections, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a modern and competitive maritime industry.