Impact of China’s new Maritime Code on Freight Forwarders

Fact Sheets / Whitepaper July 20, 2026

China’s revised Maritime Code, which came into force on 1 May 2026, is the first major overhaul of the legislation in over 30 years and introduces important changes for freight forwarders doing business in China. FIATA has issued guidance on the new Code and recommends that freight forwarders review their operational, contractual, documentation, and insurance arrangements to ensure they are prepared for the updated legal framework.