Maritime Law Updates March 2026 // Newsletter

Introduction

The maritime and shipping sector remains the backbone of global trade, with more than 80% of international trade by volume being transported by sea. This centrality underscores the importance of a robust legal and regulatory framework governing maritime operations, which continues to evolve in response to economic, geopolitical, environmental, and technological developments. In India, the sector assumes even greater significance, facilitating the vast majority of the country’s trade and supporting economic growth and global integration.

Recent developments highlight the increasing exposure of maritime trade to geopolitical disruptions, particularly in conflict-affected regions such as West Asia. Heightened security risks along key maritime chokepoints, including the Strait of Hormuz, have led to rising war-risk premiums, vessel rerouting, and increased freight costs, impacting exporters, shipowners, and global supply chains. These challenges have prompted policy