新修订的海商法自2026年5月1日起施行

Core Points - The newly revised Maritime Law was passed by the 18th meeting of the 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee and will take effect on May 1, 2026 [1] - The Maritime Law plays a crucial role in regulating maritime transport and shipping relationships, significantly contributing to the development of maritime transport and economic trade [1] - The revised law consists of 16 chapters and 310 articles, adapting to the latest trends in shipping trade and balancing the interests of relevant parties [1] Summary by Sections - Legal Framework: The revised Maritime Law adjusts the rights and obligations of parties involved in maritime activities, promoting clearer and more stable market expectations through reasonable allocation of responsibilities and risks [1] - Digitalization: It addresses the practical needs of electronic shipping documents by clarifying the legal status and main applicable rules of electronic transport records, providing institutional support for the digitalization of shipping [1] - Environmental Protection: A new chapter on "Liability for Oil Pollution Damage from Ships" has been added to enhance the legal framework for marine environmental protection and address the new requirements for ship pollution prevention [1] - International Cooperation: The law emphasizes national support for international maritime cooperation to promote the healthy development of the shipping industry and enhance the internationalization of China's maritime sector [1][2]