International Multimodal Transport Business and the Regulation of Electronic Commerce

Abstract

In this age of globalisation, the forms of contracting, buying, selling and transportation of goods has transcended age long traditional methods of doing same and the society is being geared into a paperless and cashless society. One of the benefits of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) as well as globalisation is the introduction of electronic commerce. It is believed that establishing an electronic framework for international multimodal transport is a key initiative in creating an integrated goods transport system. While this area is thriving for many national jurisdictions, some jurisdictions are still far behind, particularly regions like Africa where many businesses engage in multimodal transport business. This article undertakes an appraisal of multi modal transport business in light of International Laws and the Law of Electronic Commerce. The article examines issues such as the applicable International Conventions that would govern the movement of goods using multimodal transport; the duties, rights and liabilities of parties under the applicable laws and furthermore, the validity and effect of electronic communication in contracts of carriage of goods.

Keywords: multimodal, transportation, electronic commerce, carriage, International