Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024 Passed by Lok Sabha

1. The Lok Sabha has passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024, aimed at modernizing and simplifying maritime trade laws in India.
2. This legislation seeks to streamline the legal framework governing the transportation of goods by sea, ensuring greater clarity and compliance with international maritime conventions.

Key Features of the Bill

1. Replaces the Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925, which was outdated and required alignment with modern trade practices.
2. Defines the rights, liabilities, and responsibilities of parties involved in maritime transportation of goods, both within India and internationally.
3. Ensures compliance with global standards, aligning Indian maritime law with:
   1. The Hague Rules (1924)—an international convention establishing uniform legal standards for bills of lading.
   2. Subsequent amendments, including the Hague-Visby Rules and the Rotterdam Rules, ensuring India’s regulations remain up to date with evolving international trade laws.

Objective of the Bill

1. Simplifies legal language for better understanding and application by stakeholders, including shipping companies, traders, and legal professionals.
2. Enhances clarity in liability frameworks, reducing disputes related to cargo damage, loss, or delays in maritime transport.
3. Promotes ease of doing business by modernizing maritime trade regulations, fostering smoother global trade operations.

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