On 26 September 2023, Dr. Michiel Spanjaart celebrated the launch of his book at a hybrid event thoughtfully organized by the University of Singapore’s Center for Maritime Law. The launch event began with a pleasant introduction by Prof. Stephen Girvin, setting the stage for Dr. Spanjaart’s presentation on the features and significance of the straight bill of lading as illustrated in his book. The successful book launch was concluded with a heartfelt congratulatory toast by Kneppelhout’s Senior Partner Marc Padberg.
In the world of international trade and transport, the bill of lading forms one of the most important documents, making it a subject of extensive academic discourse. Dr. Michiel Spanjaart, however, directs his focus closely on the straight bill of lading in this book. The Straight Bill of Lading not only offers a clear overview of the characteristics and functions of a straight bill of lading but also delves into the most important and topical issues surrounding the straight bill of lading. These include the right of suit from a comparative perspective, the operation of the straight bill of lading as a ‘document of title’, and the opportunities and challenges posed by electronic straight bills of lading.
This book launch signifies the culmination of ten years of dedicated research conducted under the auspices of the National University of Singapore’s Center of Maritime Law, where Dr. Michiel Spanjaart is an academic fellow, next to his role as an advisor at Kneppelhout, partner and founder of Trains & Co law firm, and lecturer at Erasmus University.
Kneppelhout once again extends warm congratulations to Dr. Michiel Spanjaart on the publication of ‘The Straight Bill of Lading’ and looks forward to his future contributions.
