Admiralty & Maritime Law in Bangladesh
Justice Corner BD
Bangladesh, with its extensive coastline and growing maritime trade, has a well-established legal framework for admiralty and maritime matters. The country’s legal system governs disputes related to shipping, cargo, marine insurance, and vessel ownership, ensuring smooth operations in the maritime sector.
Legal Framework for Admiralty & Maritime Law
The key laws governing maritime activities in Bangladesh include:
- Admiralty Court Act 2000 – Regulates legal proceedings related to maritime claims.
- Bangladesh Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1983 – Covers ship registration, crew management, and marine safety.
- Carriage of Goods by Sea Act 1925 – Defines the rights and liabilities of cargo owners and shipping companies.
- Marine Insurance Act 1963 – Governs insurance policies for vessels and cargo.
The High Court Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh serves as the Admiralty Court, handling disputes related to ship arrests, cargo claims, collisions, salvage, and charter agreements.
Maritime Legal Services Offered
At Justice Corner BD, we provide comprehensive legal support in:
- Ship Arrest & Release – Assisting clients in securing claims by detaining vessels through court orders.
- Cargo Disputes & Claims – Handling legal issues related to lost, damaged, or delayed shipments.
- Charter Party Agreements – Drafting and reviewing contracts between shipowners and charterers.
- Marine Insurance Claims – Advising on insurance disputes and claim settlements.
- Admiralty Litigation & Arbitration – Representing clients in maritime disputes before courts and arbitration panels.
Ship Arrest & Maritime Dispute Resolution
Under Bangladeshi law, a ship can be arrested for non-payment of dues, cargo damage, collision liabilities, or breach of contracts. Shipowners can also seek release orders by providing sufficient security. Justice Corner BD assists in both initiating and defending ship arrest proceedings to protect clients’ interests.
For swift and cost-effective dispute resolution, maritime claims can be settled through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods, including arbitration and mediation.