LS passes Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 modernising 169-year-old law

In an effort to support the country’s growing shipping sector, Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways introduced the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, which aims to update and simplify the legal framework for shipping documents.

"The proposed legislation will replace the colonial-era Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856, providing a more modern and user-friendly approach to maritime shipping. The Lok Sabha passed the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 modernising the 169 years old colonial shipping law," says an official release.

"The current law, a brief three-section act, primarily governs the transfer of rights and confirmation that goods were loaded onto a vessel. With the shipping industry evolving and the global trade landscape changing, there is a pressing need for India to adopt a more comprehensive and understandable law that aligns with international standards."

The Bills of Lading Bill, 2024, will be renamed to the Bills of Lading Act, 2025, and include several key reforms, the release added. "The new legislation aims to simplify the language and reorganise provisions without altering their underlying substance. It also empowers the Central Government to issue directions to facilitate the law’s implementation along with an inclusion of a standard repeal and saving clause, while eliminating the colonial legacy of the 1856 Act."

Sonowal says: "Today marks a historic milestone in India’s journey towards a modern, efficient, and globally competitive shipping sector. The passing of the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 in Parliament is a significant step in fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modiji's vision of modernising India's legal framework, making it more relevant, modern, accessible, and free from colonial legacies that have long hindered our progress. This bill, which replaces the outdated Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856, eliminates archaic provisions and aligns India's maritime laws with global standards, enabling smoother and more secure shipping practices.

"The modernisation of the Bills of Lading Act will support India’s growing role in global trade, making it easier for businesses to navigate shipping processes. While reducing disputes, this is a crucial step towards positioning India as a global leader in maritime commerce. The transformation of this law is not just a technical update; it is a statement of our commitment to building a Viksit Bharat — a developed India — where outdated colonial structures no longer hold us back. By simplifying the language, reorganising provisions and empowering the government to better implement and manage this legislation, we are creating a more business-friendly environment that will reduce legal complexities and foster greater trust in our maritime trade.

"The passing of this bill reflects the government's continued dedication to facilitating trade, reducing litigation risks and ensuring that India remains at the forefront of global shipping. As we move forward, this law will serve as a vital tool in our efforts to grow India’s role in international commerce, empowering both businesses and individuals to thrive in a rapidly evolving global market."

Post passing of the bill in the Lok Sabha, it will now be presented in the Rajya Sabha before the President of India assents it to be promulgated as the law of the land, the release added.

Ankur Kumar, Manager, PwC in his LinkedIn post says: "The bill consolidates rights and liabilities, ensuring that consignees and endorsees of bills of lading possess clear legal standing. This streamlines dispute resolution and fortifies trust among stakeholders."