The digitalisation of trade documents has made electronic bills of lading (eBLs) increasingly important in maritime commerce. However, eBLs do not operate independently. They depend on platforms that enable their creation, transfer, amendment, surrender and termination. These platforms are often described as technology providers or neutral infrastructure, but their role may be legally more significant when they shape how parties access, use, and rely on electronic trade documents.

This project examines the legal position of eBL platforms. It investigates how different platform architectures affect the distribution of power within eBL systems, and how those power boundaries may matter for liability. The project considers centralised title registry systems, decentralised or blockchain-based systems, and hybrid platform arrangements. It also investigates how platform power may arise through access management, record maintenance, transaction processing, recovery mechanisms and intervention powers.

The project does not assume that eBL platforms should automatically be liable for losses arising in digital trade. It explores a prior question: when does a platform move beyond being a mere technology provider? By linking platform architecture, power boundaries and potential liability, the project aims to contribute to the development of a clearer legal framework for electronic trade documents and digital maritime commerce.

Presentations

• ‘The Boundaries of Platform Power in eBL Systems’, CML Researchers Seminar, NUS Law, 29 April 2026