The China Maritime Code 2026, enacted on May 1, marks the most significant overhaul of Chinese maritime law since 1993, introducing sweeping changes to liability and compliance for global logistics operators, reports AI's Copilot.

The most disruptive change is Article 295, which requires contracts involving loading or discharge in China to be governed by Chinese law, overriding standard choice-of-law clauses such as English law. This shift exposes carriers and forwarders to Chinese jurisdiction in disputes.

Carrier obligations have been expanded beyond the traditional tackle-to-tackle scope, now covering receipt and delivery. This increases the burden of proof and broadens liability exposure for operators.

Costs linked to unclaimed cargo at discharge ports have been shifted from consignees to shippers, creating new financial risks for exporters if buyers fail to collect goods.

The law also grants legal standing to electronic transport records and raises liability limits to align with the 1996 LLMC Protocol. This means claims could be significantly larger, requiring updated insurance coverage and claims-handling procedures.

Industry experts warn that companies failing to revise contracts and operational protocols immediately face major exposure gaps. Logistics professionals are urged to audit bills of lading and adjust compliance processes without delay.