India’s maritime sector is in the midst of a significant regulatory transition. Following the enactment of the Indian Ports Act 20251, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways released the Draft Indian Port Rules, 20262 on 23 January 2026 to lay down the operational framework for implementing the new law.
Although the Rules are yet to be finalised, they provide a clear indication of the direction in which port regulation is heading. Port authorities, terminal operators, shipping lines, logistics service providers, cargo handlers and other stakeholders in the maritime ecosystem would be well advised to review the proposed framework closely and identify areas where operational, environmental and reporting practices may need strengthening.
