Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2025

Goa Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2025 has been enacted to replace the Goa Shops and Establishments Act, 1973, which had served for several decades as the principal law regulating the conditions of employment and service in shops, commercial establishments and other establishments in the State. With rapid technological advancement, changing patterns of business, digital commerce and evolving workplace requirements, several provisions of the earlier law had become outdated and required comprehensive reconsideration.

The new Act seeks to promote ease of doing business by providing a more flexible regulatory framework, including liberalisation of requirements for small establishments, facilitating round-the-clock operations and recognising the changing nature of commercial activities. It also seeks to provide greater opportunities for women to participate in night-shift employment, subject to prescribed safeguards and conditions.

The Act was passed in 2025; however, its date of commencement has not yet been notified. Its operative provisions will therefore take effect from such date as may be notified by the Government.