Date:22/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/07/22/stories/2006072203460900.htm

Back `Bill of Lading law needs updating'

Our Bureau

Mumbai, July 21

Mr D.T. Joseph, Advisor to the Ministry of Shipping, has called for certain changes in the legislation concerning bill of lading, which should be done through greater co-ordination between the shipping industry and the Government.

Speaking at the inauguration of a two-day seminar on `Bill of Lading', he said that some updating were also necessary with regard to existing laws such as the Carriage of Goods Act of 1924 and the Hague Rules.

With trade and exports surging especially to countries such as the US, the bill of lading assumes added significance.

Mr P.C. Jha, Chief Commissioner of Customs, emphasised the crucial role of the bill of lading in international trade and how all agencies had to play their part to ensure smooth flow of trade. He added out that the Department of Customs has taken a number of steps to remove constraints plaguing the shipping trade.