Imported Food Compliance in India: Batch Numbers, Best Before Dates and the Bill of Entry Explained

Imported Food Compliance in India: Batch Numbers, Best Before Dates and the Bill of Entry Explained

FSSAI requirements, documentation expectations, and the role of the Bill of Entry

In the import of food products into India, compliance failures rarely arise from unsafe goods alone. More often, they stem from incomplete traceability. A missing batch number, an unclear best before date, or inconsistent documentation can halt a consignment even when the product itself meets all safety standards.

India’s food import regime, governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, places traceability at the centre of enforcement. Understanding how FSSAI norms interact with customs procedures is therefore essential for importers, logistics providers, and customs brokers alike.

This article examines when batch, lot and best before details are mandatory, where they must appear, and whether the Bill of Entry is legally required to carry them.

Why FSSAI places emphasis on batch and shelf-life information

Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, food safety is not limited to composition or hygiene. It also includes the ability to trace food back to its source. Batch and lot numbers are the mechanism that makes recalls possible. Best before and use by dates protect consumers from degraded or unsafe food.

FSSAI’s approach is product-centric. The primary obligation lies on the food itself and its labeling. However, during imports, documentation becomes the first point of verification, which is why authorities increasingly scrutinise shipment papers for these details.

Mandatory labeling requirements under FSSAI for imported food

FSSAI regulations require every packaged food item, whether manufactured in India or imported, to carry the following on its label:

Name of the food

List of ingredients

Net quantity

Name and address of manufacturer and importer

Country of origin for imported food

Batch number, lot number, or code number

Date of manufacture or packing

Best before or use by date

For imported food, these details may appear on the original label or be added through rectification or relabeling in a bonded warehouse, subject to approval by the authorised officer.

Batch or lot numbers are not optional. At least one traceability identifier must be present on the label in a clear and legible manner.

Shelf-life requirements at the time of import

FSSAI mandates that imported food must have a valid remaining shelf life at the time of import. While the exact percentage may vary by product category or specific order, expired food or food nearing expiry without adequate remaining life is liable for rejection.

This makes the best before or use by date a critical compliance element at the import stage. Authorities routinely verify this during document scrutiny and physical inspection.

Do FSSAI norms require batch or best before details on shipment documents

Strictly speaking, FSSAI regulations do not prescribe a mandatory format for commercial invoices, packing lists, or Bills of Entry. Their legal focus remains on labeling.

However, FSSAI import clearance operates through a risk-based assessment system, where officers examine documents to determine whether sampling, testing, or inspection is required. In this process, batch and shelf-life details become operationally significant.

If shipment documents do not clearly indicate batch numbers or best before dates, officers may:

Seek clarifications

Order additional inspection

Insist on label verification through physical examination

Delay clearance pending compliance confirmation

As a result, while not explicitly mandated in writing, inclusion of these details in shipment documents has become an accepted compliance expectation under FSSAI import procedures.

The Bill of Entry and its legal scope

The Bill of Entry is a customs document governed by customs law, not food law. Its primary function is assessment of duty, classification, and import eligibility.

There is no statutory requirement under FSSAI or customs law to declare batch number, lot number, or best before date as compulsory fields in the Bill of Entry.

However, customs authorities act as the implementing arm for FSSAI at ports. When food items are flagged for FSSAI clearance, officers may request supporting information even if it is not a predefined Bill of Entry field.

Many importers therefore voluntarily include batch or lot information in the goods description section of the Bill of Entry, particularly for regulated food categories.

This is a compliance strategy, not a legal mandate.

Recommended document format aligned with FSSAI expectations

To align with FSSAI norms and minimise clearance delays, the following format is widely considered best practice.

Commercial Invoice

Product name and brand

HS code

Batch or lot number

Date of manufacture or packing

Best before or use by date

Net quantity

Country of origin

Packing List

Package or pallet number

Product description

Batch or lot number

Quantity per batch

Gross and net weight

Bill of Entry (Description Field)

Product name and brand

Packaging type

Net quantity

Batch or lot number (recommended, not mandatory)

For consignments involving multiple batches, a separate annexure titled “Batch and Shelf-Life Details” should be referenced consistently across all documents.

FSSAI inspection and ground-level enforcement reality

In practice, FSSAI officers place strong emphasis on consistency. The batch number on the label should match the batch number on the invoice or annexure. The best before date should logically align with the manufacturing date. Discrepancies, even minor ones, often lead to sampling or reinspection.

Importers who rely solely on minimum legal requirements frequently encounter delays. Those who proactively disclose batch and shelf-life details across documents generally experience smoother clearance.

Conclusion

Under FSSAI norms, batch or lot numbers and best before dates are mandatory for imported food products at the labeling level. While the law does not compel their declaration on every shipment document or the Bill of Entry, enforcement practice strongly favours transparency and traceability.

In the Indian food import environment, compliance is no longer just about meeting the rules. It is about demonstrating control.

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Recommendation

For food imports into India, always align your documentation with FSSAI’s traceability philosophy. Include batch or lot numbers and best before dates on invoices and packing lists, and reference them in the Bill of Entry wherever feasible. This approach goes beyond bare compliance and significantly reduces regulatory friction at the port.

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Disclaimer

This article is intended solely for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal, regulatory, or professional advice of any kind. The content is based on laws, regulations, and administrative practices as generally understood at the time of writing; however, such laws, interpretations, and enforcement practices are subject to change and may vary by jurisdiction, port, or authority.

The author makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or current applicability of the information contained herein, and expressly disclaims all liability for any loss, damage, delay, penalty, or adverse consequence arising directly or indirectly from the use of, reliance upon, or interpretation of this article.

Readers are strongly advised to seek independent professional advice and to verify applicable legal and regulatory requirements with the appropriate authorities before acting on the basis of the information provided. The views expressed are solely those of the author and do not purport to represent any official position of any regulatory or governmental body.

ISO 14083 Certification: The New Global Benchmark for Transport Emissions

ISO 14083 has rapidly emerged as the world’s primary standard for calculating and reporting greenhouse-gas emissions from transport chains. Published in 2023 and now adopted across major logistics networks, the standard brings long-needed consistency to an area long plagued by fragmented methods, varying assumptions and non-comparable carbon figures. As pressure intensifies on supply chains to demonstrate credible climate performance, ISO 14083 is quickly becoming essential for companies seeking transparency, compliance and competitive advantage.

Why ISO 14083 matters now?

Transport emissions form one of the most complex parts of corporate carbon accounting. Goods may move through multiple countries, modes and subcontractors. Until recently, different companies used their own formulas, leading to wide discrepancies in results. ISO 14083 provides a uniform, auditable methodology that ensures emissions for every leg, mode and handling operation can be calculated in a comparable way.

Its importance has grown sharply over the past year. Large buyers now routinely request ISO-aligned emissions reporting from logistics partners. Several national and regional regulators, particularly in Europe, are incorporating requirements for transparent, standardised carbon disclosure in freight. As decarbonisation deadlines approach, companies can no longer afford vague or inconsistent reporting. ISO 14083 has become the shared language the sector was missing.

What the standard actually covers

ISO 14083 sets out rules for calculating emissions from the full movement of goods and people across road, rail, sea and air. It defines boundaries, data requirements and allocation methods clearly, ensuring that every tonne of emissions is accounted for consistently.

Key elements include:

Activity-based calculations: It prioritises real operational data such as fuel consumption, electricity used, distance travelled and load factors.

Treatment of complex journeys: Multi-leg routes, intermodal transfers and hub activities are handled using uniform rules that avoid double counting.

Emission factors: It provides guidance on selecting appropriate and up-to-date factors for fuels, electricity and energy sources.

Data quality tiers: Companies can start with representative or modelled data and move progressively toward higher accuracy as systems improve.

Industry uptake and tools

Since late 2023 and throughout 2024–25, adoption has accelerated. Global logistics giants, postal operators, major freight forwarders and e-commerce supply chains have already aligned their calculators to ISO 14083. Industry frameworks such as the GLEC Framework have been updated to maintain compatibility, and certification bodies now offer ISO 14083 conformity assessments.

Digital tools have also evolved quickly. Many transport management systems and carbon-accounting platforms now include ISO 14083-aligned modules, enabling firms to shift from spreadsheet-based estimation to automated, auditable reporting. This has made implementation more practical even for smaller operators.

Practical implications for companies

Implementing ISO 14083 typically requires three steps:

1. Strengthen data capture

Organisations must gather high-quality data on fuel, distance, payload, equipment type and route specifics. Partner and subcontractor data sharing becomes crucial.

2. Integrate systems

ISO 14083 works best when transport management, telematics, fleet systems and carbon tools are connected. Reducing manual inputs improves accuracy and auditability.

3. Establish governance

Companies increasingly appoint a single process owner for emissions accounting, supported by internal audits or third-party verification. Buyers now expect documented evidence of methodology and data quality.

Common challenges

Many companies encounter similar hurdles:

Incomplete data from carriers, especially for subcontracted legs. Templates and contractual requirements are becoming standard solutions.

Electricity-based transport complexity as the carbon intensity of grid power varies widely by region and hour. Firms must choose representative and current factors.

Handling multimodal and cross-border journeys where data formats and units differ.

Cost pressures for smaller carriers implementing new digital tools or verification processes.

Industry groups are publishing step-by-step guidance emphasising practical, phased adoption rather than perfection on day one.

What’s next

The momentum behind ISO 14083 is strengthening. Over the next year, expect:

Greater regulatory alignment as governments incorporate standardised transport emission accounting into disclosure rules.

More buyer-driven enforcement, with ISO-aligned reporting becoming a default requirement in procurement.

Continued harmonisation with sector tools and calculators, making implementation smoother and reducing duplication of reporting efforts.

Rising demand for certified conformity, especially in international freight where trust and comparability are crucial.

ISO 14083 is also becoming a foundation for optimisation. Once emissions are measured consistently, companies can pinpoint hotspots such as empty runs, inefficient modes and high-emission routes — enabling targeted decarbonisation initiatives.

Recommendations

Companies operating or relying on logistics networks should adopt ISO 14083 immediately. Begin by mapping your top transport lanes, identify where accurate data already exists, and upgrade systems to capture fuel, electricity and load information automatically. Use an ISO-aligned calculator, mandate data templates for partners and appoint a dedicated owner for verification. Early adopters will not only meet incoming compliance expectations but also gain operational insights and reputational advantages.

Global Container Shipping: Overcapacity, Security Shifts : What to expect for the Next Six Months

As 2025 draws to a close, the container shipping industry stands at the intersection of two powerful forces: a historic wave of new vessel deliveries that is pushing global capacity well beyond demand, and the lingering effects of two years of maritime security disruptions centred around the Red Sea. Together, they have reshaped freight markets, altered carrier behaviour, and introduced a new level of strategic caution across global logistics networks.

This month, the picture is becoming clearer. Despite temporary spikes in freight rates earlier in the year due to diversions around Africa, the structural reality is now asserting itself: too many ships, not enough cargo, and a gradually stabilising but still fragile security situation in the Middle East. The following report summarises the major developments in November 2025, and examines what shippers and investors can expect over the next three to six months.

Overcapacity Dominates the Narrative

The industry’s central challenge remains unchanged: new vessel deliveries continue to arrive faster than global demand can absorb. The orderbook — placed largely during the 2021–2022 freight-rate boom — is now maturing. Several major carriers, tonnage providers and brokers have warned in recent weeks that global container fleet growth will remain well above organic trade growth through 2026.

This month, large shipyards in Asia have delivered several high-capacity vessels, some exceeding 20,000 TEU, at a time when cargo volumes across the main East–West lanes have been seasonally stable but far from exceptional. Utilisation rates on select Asia–Europe and Trans-Pacific services have hovered in the low-to-mid 80% range, a clear indicator that capacity is outstripping demand.

Freight rates reflect this imbalance. After firming earlier in the year due to Red Sea diversions, rates have softened again as reroutings stabilise and carriers face fewer disruptions. Spot prices on key corridors continue to show week-to-week volatility, but the underlying direction remains downward. The greatest pressure is visible on contract negotiations, where shippers are pushing for more flexible terms and lower baseline rates heading into early 2026.

Across the industry, a cautious and defensive tone is emerging. Some carriers have already described next year as “challenging” or “margin-tightening,” particularly for operators heavily exposed to spot markets.

Commercial Adjustments and Tactical Measures

With little room to manoeuvre on capacity in the short term, carriers have intensified tactical measures to preserve yield. Blank sailings have become more common across multiple alliances, particularly on high-capacity loops where seasonal demand weakens in Q1. Slower steaming, a familiar tool from past downturns, is re-appearing as a cost-control measure.

However, none of these tactics can fundamentally reverse the mathematics of oversupply. The global fleet is simply growing too quickly. Several analysts note that the orderbook will continue to deliver large vessels well into 2027, even if some owners attempt late-stage deferrals or cascade older ships into secondary regional trades.

The seasonal reduction in Trans-Pacific and Asia–Europe demand in the early months of the year will amplify these pressures. Unless global trade volumes receive a large, unexpected stimulus, carriers will need increasingly aggressive network adjustments to prevent utilisation from falling further.

Security: A Cautious but Noticeable Shift in Red Sea Dynamics

The other defining factor of the past two years — maritime insecurity triggered by Houthi attacks — shows tentative signs of easing. Following a ceasefire in Gaza earlier this quarter, the Houthis signalled a halt to attacks on commercial shipping. This announcement has been met with cautious optimism by carriers, charterers, and insurers.

A limited but perceptible flow of container traffic has begun returning to the Suez route, reducing the number of Cape-of-Good-Hope diversions that had stretched transit times and increased bunker consumption. However, nobody in the industry is treating the pause as permanent. The risk of a sudden flare-up remains high, and war-risk premiums continue to reflect that uncertainty.

The memory of earlier 2025 incidents — including the sinking or severe damage of several commercial vessels and the capture of crew members — is still fresh. For many operators, a full restoration of confidence will require months of stable conditions without further escalation. For now, routing decisions through the Red Sea remain heavily risk-assessed and conditional.

What the Next Three Months Are Likely to Bring (Dec 2025 – Feb 2026)

The coming quarter is expected to be shaped by three intertwined trends: seasonal demand softening, continued structural oversupply, and a complex security transition.

First, freight rates are likely to remain under pressure throughout Q1. Without the strong peak-season uplift that typically precedes the end of the year, carriers will face a quiet period in which pricing power is limited and operational costs remain high.

Second, as more ships deliver in early 2026, the overall fleet capacity will expand further. Commercial strategies such as blank sailings will continue, but will not fully counteract the arrival of new large vessels.

Third, the industry will continue to test the waters on Red Sea routing. If the current calm holds, more services may shift back to the Suez Canal, gradually restoring shorter transit times. But insurers are unlikely to retreat too quickly, and shippers will continue to hedge risk with alternative routings, buffer inventory, or diversified schedules.

For shippers, this window represents a strong negotiating period: contract terms, flexibility clauses, and rate agreements can often be secured at more favourable levels when carriers face utilisation difficulties.

Outlook for tye Next 6 Months 

Looking further ahead, the container shipping sector is expected to remain in a low-rate, oversupplied environment. Fleet expansion will continue and global trade growth — while steady — shows no signs of returning to the double-digit patterns seen in earlier decades.

Carriers with diversified operations, including port services, inland logistics, and integrated supply-chain products, may demonstrate greater resilience. Meanwhile, pure ocean-carriers reliant on spot markets face a more uncertain landscape. Some industry observers suggest that the coming year may test the limits of current alliances and could even spark a new wave of consolidation or strategic restructuring.

On the security front, a cautious optimism may grow if the Red Sea stabilises further. Any sustained calm would encourage a normalisation of routing patterns and potentially bring small reductions in insurance premiums. But geopolitical conditions remain fragile, and the industry is preparing for rapid response should tensions resurface.

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 Conclusion (Concise and Actionable points)

For Shippers:

Use the next 2–3 months to renegotiate contracts or secure short-term agreements with favourable terms. Maintain flexible routing plans and keep war-risk assessments updated for every voyage through the Red Sea.

India’s trade landscape: key regulatory updates on Free Trade, SEZs and EXIM

India’s trade landscape: key regulatory updates on Free Trade, SEZs and EXIM 

Over the past three months New Delhi has introduced a string of changes affecting Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Free Trade Warehousing Zones (FTWZ), export-import (EXIM) policy instruments and export incentives — moves aimed at boosting exports while tightening compliance on certain products.

What changed (high level)

• SEZ rule amendments and faster approvals. The Ministry of Commerce has continued implementing amendments to the SEZ Rules (2006) introduced earlier in 2025, with Board of Approval meetings and supplementary agendas through August underscoring a push to simplify land norms and accelerate approvals for strategic sectors (notably semiconductors and electronics). 

• FTWZ clarifications on tax and GST treatment. Recent rulings and advance rulings at state levels have clarified that sales of goods held inside FTWZ (before clearance for home consumption) do not constitute a ‘supply’ for GST purposes — reinforcing the treatment that Customs duty/IGST is triggered on clearance to home consumption rather than intra-FTWZ transactions. This reduces tax uncertainty for warehousing operators and traders using FTWZ for value-added operations. 

• DGFT notifications tightening and loosening specific product rules. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has issued multiple policy updates in recent weeks adjusting export conditions for agri-products and industrial inputs, including timely notifications (early October) on rice-related HSN classifications and other products — reflecting nimble, product-level policy shifts to respond to domestic supply and international market signals. 

• Short-term extension of export incentive schemes. The government extended the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP) scheme to March 2026 — a continuity measure for exporters that preserves tariff rebate predictability while broader trade negotiations and policy reviews proceed. 

• Operational tweaks: Advance authorisations and export obligations. DGFT has also amended procedural timelines (for example in Advance Authorisation export obligations and quality control compliance) to ease compliance for importers, EOUs and SEZ/FTWZ users in certain product lines — a practical step to reduce friction for exporters reliant on input imports. 

What this means for businesses and trade flows

1. Clarity for warehousing and value-added trade: FTWZ users and logistics providers gain legal certainty on GST and customs timing — likely encouraging more manufacturers to perform finishing/assembly in FTWZ before deciding on export vs home-consumption. 

2. Policy nimbleness: The DGFT’s product-by-product notifications signal a move toward targeted controls (e.g., agri items) rather than blanket trade restrictions — exporters should therefore monitor weekly DGFT notices. 

3. Continuity of incentives: Extending RoDTEP through March 2026 sustains competitiveness for exporters through a turbulent global trade year. 

Risks & watchpoints

• Rapid, frequent product notifications increase compliance burden — exporters must beef up monitoring and counsel. 

• Any future SEZ rule changes tied to land or end-use could affect investment decisions for large projects; watch Board of Approval minutes and MoC circulars. 

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My pick & recommendation (short)

For exporters and logistics firms: treat the next 90 days as a monitor & adapt window. Prioritise (1) regular DGFT notices subscription, (2) contractual clauses that account for product-level policy changes, and (3) review whether moving higher-value finishing steps into FTWZ can defer tax triggers and improve flexibility. 

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References 

1. SEZ India (Ministry of Commerce) — SEZ notices, BoA minutes and rule amendments. 

2. DGFT — Trade Notices / Public Notices (DGFT portal). 

3. Tamil Nadu AAR / FTWZ GST discussion and rulings (tax commentary). 

4. Reuters — RoDTEP extension to March 2026 (news reporting). 

5. DGFT product notifications and recent amendments (trade advisory summaries). 

A New Era in Global Shipping: The Arctic Express

A New Era in Global Shipping: The Arctic Express

A Chinese shipping company, Haijie Shipping, is poised to launch what could be a transformative route in global freight transport. Beginning 20 September, a vessel known as the Istanbul Bridge—with a capacity of 4,890 TEU—will set sail from Qingdao, with stops at Shanghai and Ningbo, before navigating the Northern Sea Route (NSR) to reach Europe. The planned European ports include Felixstowe in the UK, Rotterdam in the Netherlands, Hamburg in Germany and Gdańsk in Poland .

Dramatic Reductions in Transit Time

The Arctic Express is projected to shorten the journey significantly. The voyage is expected to take around 18 days, compared to 40–50 days via the traditional Suez Canal or Cape of Good Hope routes . Some sources cite up to 50 per cent lower transit times. That speed is not just an improvement—it is potentially game-changing, particularly for time-sensitive goods.

Who Benefits?

Retailers, manufacturers and e-commerce platforms stand to benefit the most. Faster delivery translates into reduced inventory costs and faster capital turnover. The inaugural voyage is already fully booked, indicating strong demand for rapid, reliable logistics—especially ahead of Europe’s holiday season .

Seasonality and Future Prospects

For now, the service remains strictly seasonal. Arctic sea ice conditions currently enable navigation only between late July and early November . Organisers indicate plans to commission higher ice-class ships—such as Arc7 vessels—that could make year-round transit feasible in future years .

Geopolitical and Strategic Dimensions

This route underscores China’s broader ambition to develop the “Polar Silk Road,” part of its Arctic policy in collaboration with Russia. The Northern Sea Route could reduce China’s reliance on southern chokepoints such as the Strait of Malacca and the Suez Canal, enhancing trade resilience . At the same time, Arctic operations require new infrastructure—sea-ice monitoring, port services and icebreaker support.

Environmental and Operational Challenges

Despite the potential, Arctic shipping is not without risks. Ice variability, limited search and rescue infrastructure, shallow waters and higher insurance costs pose significant hurdles . Environmental groups also warn of the fragile Arctic ecosystem and urge strict oversight .

Wider Industry Moves

The inaugural route is not happening in isolation. Operators such as Newnew Shipping have already conducted multiple container voyages (13 in 2024) via the NSR, moving some 20,000 TEUs collectively . Individual voyages—such as the Flying Fish 1 (now Istanbul Bridge) making a 25-day Arctic crossing—demonstrate that shorter expeditions are viable .

The Broader Context

Global maritime trade is facing disruptions in traditional routes. Attacks in the Red Sea have prompted rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope, making alternative paths more attractive . Arctic routes bypass these congested and risky areas entirely.

Summary Table

Aspect Arctic Express (NSR) Traditional Route (Suez/Cape)

Transit Time ~18–20 days ~40–50 days

Seasonality Seasonal (Summer–Autumn) Year-round

Main Benefits Speed, lower inventory, resilience Established, scalable

Challenges Ice, infrastructure, environment Piracy, chokepoints, congestion

Final Thoughts

The launch of the Arctic Express suggests that shipping history might indeed be rewritten not in boardrooms, but across the oceans themselves. For now, it is a bold experiment—but one full of promise. If successful, this could reshape trade between China and Europe dramatically.

Would you trust your cargo to the Arctic route? The answer may depend on cargo type, timing, risk appetite and long-term market strategy.

Merchant shipping bill : A Bold Push for Transparency in India’s Maritime Sector

A Bold Push for Transparency in India’s Maritime Sector

India's maritime sector is undergoing a significant transformation with the introduction of the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024. This legislation is designed to modernise the country's shipping regulations by replacing the Merchant Shipping Act of 1958. It reflects the government’s broader ambition to make India a global maritime hub through enhanced transparency, efficiency, and alignment with international best practices.

Overhauling an Outdated Framework

The original Merchant Shipping Act was introduced over six decades ago and has since become ill-suited to the demands of modern global trade. The 2024 Bill aims to rectify this by focusing on transparency in port-related charges, simplifying ship registration processes, enhancing digital compliance, and prioritising the welfare of seafarers.

One of the Bill's standout features is its provision that mandates service providers to clearly disclose all charges levied in connection with maritime transport. This includes costs related to port handling, documentation, and agent fees. All such charges must be listed in the Bill of Lading or its equivalent. Any failure to comply can attract penalties of up to five lakh rupees.

Crucially, the Bill does not seek to regulate freight rates, which will continue to be driven by market forces. Instead, it targets the additional surcharges and hidden costs that often frustrate exporters, importers, and logistics operators.

Broadening Ship Ownership and Registration

Another key reform under the Bill is the expanded definition of what constitutes an “Indian vessel.” It now includes ships owned by Non-Resident Indians, Overseas Citizens of India, and Limited Liability Partnerships, among others. This opens the door for broader investment and participation in India’s maritime industry.

Additionally, vessels leased under bareboat charter arrangements can now be registered in India even before the completion of payment. This change is expected to help grow India’s domestic shipping tonnage and reduce dependency on foreign-flagged vessels.

Strengthening Seafarer Welfare

The Bill proposes the creation of a dedicated Seafarer’s Welfare Board to safeguard the interests of maritime workers. This body will advise on matters related to living and working conditions, ensuring that Indian seafarers are protected under international maritime labour standards.

Improved welfare provisions are particularly significant in the context of recent global challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which exposed the vulnerabilities of seafarers stranded at sea due to port closures and quarantine restrictions.

Embracing Digitalisation

To boost operational efficiency, the Merchant Shipping Bill introduces digital processes for ship registration, certification, and compliance. By replacing paper-based systems, these reforms aim to reduce red tape, eliminate delays, and foster ease of doing business in the maritime sector.

This push towards digital transformation is in alignment with India’s national development programmes that seek to modernise infrastructure and reduce logistical costs.

Complementing Other Maritime Reforms

The Merchant Shipping Bill is one of several legislative efforts to rejuvenate India’s maritime framework. Alongside it are the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill and the Indian Ports Bill.

The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill aims to replace the nearly century-old law governing cargo transport. It will bring India’s regulatory framework in line with newer international conventions and offer greater contractual flexibility for shippers and consignees.

Meanwhile, the Indian Ports Bill seeks to provide statutory backing to State Maritime Boards and mandates greater transparency in port tariffs. It also proposes the establishment of a centralised Maritime State Development Council to foster collaboration between state and central authorities.

Together, these three bills form a cohesive legal ecosystem intended to position India as a competitive maritime economy.

Sectoral Benefits and Strategic Impact

The Merchant Shipping Bill is expected to yield multiple benefits:

1. Transparency in Charges: By mandating full disclosure, the Bill aims to eliminate hidden fees and ensure fair practices. This will significantly improve the experience for exporters, importers, and freight forwarders.

2. Growth in Indian Tonnage: Broader eligibility for Indian-flag registration and supportive chartering provisions will boost the domestic shipping fleet, contributing to national economic resilience.

3. Seafarer Confidence: A formal welfare mechanism ensures better oversight and working conditions for India’s large maritime workforce.

4. Efficiency through Technology: Digital workflows will shorten processing times, reduce human error, and make the regulatory system more agile.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its progressive intent, the Bill does face some challenges. The enforcement of penalty clauses will need careful oversight to prevent misuse. Additionally, while the Bill covers disclosure of charges, it does not yet account for the growing use of electronic bills of lading, a matter that may require further legal clarification in future updates.

Moreover, the success of these reforms will depend heavily on the readiness of stakeholders—from ship owners and port operators to customs authorities and freight agents—to embrace change.

Nonetheless, the Merchant Shipping Bill represents a bold step towards creating a more transparent, modern, and efficient maritime sector in India. It addresses long-standing concerns, encourages investment, and aligns India’s legal structure with global norms.

As the country continues to assert itself as a major trading nation, these reforms are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the next chapter of its maritime growth story.

Top 5 Logistics Trends Transforming Indian Trade in 2025

Top 5 Logistics Trends Transforming Indian Trade in 2025

India’s logistics and supply chain sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation in 2025—driven by sustainability mandates, digital innovation, policy reforms, and strategic global partnerships. As the country aims to slash logistics costs and boost export competitiveness, a new ecosystem is emerging—smarter, greener, and more connected than ever before. Here’s a look at the top five developments shaping the future of Indian trade and what they mean for businesses navigating this dynamic landscape.

1. Green & Sustainable Warehousing Goes Mainstream 🌱

India’s warehousing landscape is undergoing a radical shift towards sustainability. Driven by global ESG requirements and multinational demands, developers are embracing energy-efficient building techniques, renewable power, and eco-friendly materials . According to a JLL India study, certified green warehousing space is set to soar from 65 million sq ft in 2024 to 270 million sq ft by 2030—quadrupling in just six years .

Why this matters for trade:

Green infrastructure helps MNCs maintain compliance with global sustainability norms, making India a more attractive sourcing destination.

Reduced operating costs and energy consumption may lead to lower warehousing prices—beneficial for exporters and importers alike.

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2. SMILE Programme & ADB‑financed Overhaul of Multimodal Logistics

India’s ambitious SMILE initiative—Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem—backed by a US $350 million ADB policy‑based loan, is central to modernising logistics . It fortifies the Gati Shakti Master Plan and National Logistics Policy by:

Boosting connectivity via multimodal hubs.

Standardising warehousing assets.

Promoting digitalisation in external trade.

Investing in gender‑responsive land ports to support women in logistics .

Impact on trade:

Reduces logistics costs (currently ~14 per cent of GDP, with a goal of 9 per cent) .

Strengthens internal networks, improving lead times and export competitiveness.

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3. Major Infrastructure Push: Highways, Ports & Industrial Parks

A series of Cabinet nods for infrastructure developments promise a logistics revolution :

Construction of ~166 km four‑lane highway linking Meghalaya and Assam.

New six‑lane bypass and arterial highways near Zirakpur–Patiala and JNPA Port in Maharashtra.

Establishment of a 25‑acre Panattoni industrial‑logistics park in Hosur, Tamil Nadu with €100 million investment .

Additionally, Tamil Nadu will launch a warehousing policy by October 2025, aimed at strategically clustering agri-logistics and manufacturing warehousing in tier‑2/3 cities .

Why it’s transformative:

Improved road and port connectivity slashes transit times and costs.

Purpose-built industrial parks attract FDI pool and streamline supply chains for manufacturing exports.

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4. Trade Agreements & Shifting Geopolitical Alignments

India has made significant diplomatic strides shaping trade flows:

A landmark FTA with the UK, covering 99 per cent of Indian exports, was agreed earlier in May 2025; ratification expected within months .

Under the Quad Ports of the Future Partnership, India will host an advanced ports and logistics conference in Mumbai (October 2025) alongside Australia, Japan and the US, aimed at developing cutting‑edge port infrastructure .

Consequences for logistics and exports:

FTAs lower tariff barriers, enabling traders to benefit from preferential access and boost volumes.

Collaboration through Quad can accelerate modern port practices, enhancing competitiveness of Indian maritime logistics.

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5. Supply Chain Digitalisation & AI-Driven Efficiency Gains

Digital transformation has become a core pillar. Government platforms like BharatTradeNet (BTN)—set up in the Union Budget 2025—integrate international trade documentation with customs clearance and finance . Moreover:

IndiaAI highlights the deployment of AI-powered demand forecasting, inventory optimisation and blockchain-enabled visibility .

Over 1 billion API transactions through logistics platforms (like ULIP) signify deepening digital maturity .

How it reshapes trade:

Smoother, transparent documentation reduces delays at ports and borders.

Predictive analytics enhances inventory planning, cutting waste and costs—especially vital for perishable exports.

Enhanced tracking reduces shipment loss and fraud, satisfying global buyers’ standards.

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Why These Trends Matter for India’s Trade

Cost reduction: From infrastructure to digital platforms, these reforms aim to lower the hefty ~14 per cent logistics‑GDP burden. According to projections, achieving ~9 per cent can unlock a US $100 billion export opportunity by 2030 .

Resilience & sustainability: Green warehousing, smart ports and digitalised customs create a more climate‑responsible and disruption‑ready system.

Global competitiveness: Infrastructure, FTAs and AI integration position India as a preferred alternative to China—for sectors like electronics, automotive, pharmaceuticals and agri-processing.

Tier‑2/3 uplift: Policies targeting regional warehouses and industrial parks spread logistics growth beyond metro regions—benefiting MSMEs too.

Inclusive growth: Gender‑responsive land ports and multimodal exchange points support inclusive labour participation.

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Challenges & the Road Ahead

While these trends are promising, India must address several hurdles:

1. Financing and regulation

Despite policy support, large‑scale investments require smooth regulatory frameworks and bankable models to avoid delays.

2. Skill shortage

Digital and AI‑based logistics demand a skilled workforce—training programmes and Industry 4.0 readiness are essential.

3. Association & standards

Harmonising state-level warehousing standards, customs efficiency and local infrastructure remains a challenge.

4. Last‑mile connectivity

Modern terminals need seamless linkages to rail, road and air logistics for full value-chain integration.

5. Ensuring equitable access

Prioritising tier‑2/3 regions and women-led logistics enterprises must remain central as scale-up occurs.

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Final Reflections

India’s logistics and supply chain revolution is now well underway. From green warehousing, infrastructure mega‑projects, digital platforms, AI-led processes, to FTA-fuelled trade routes, the nation is meticulously laying the foundations for sustained trade-led growth.

By tackling challenges in financing, skills and standardisation, India is ripe to reduce logistics costs, enhance resilience and climb the global value‑chain ladder. For exporters, manufacturers and MSMEs, this means faster delivery, better pricing and easier access to global markets—from Europe to the UK, UAE, and beyond.

As the calendar heads into late 2025, these trends provide both momentum and mandate for businesses to rethink supply chain strategies, invest in digital systems, and pair up with green logistics providers—a clear roadmap for future-proofing India’s trade ambitions.