India Tops Global Ship Recycling in 2025: UNCTAD Report
Why in the news
Ports Ministry announced on 22 June 2026 that India has become the world’s biggest ship recycler, based on UNCTAD data. This delivers a Maritime India Vision 2030 goal well ahead of time.
Key numbers
| Measure | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| India’s global share | 30.1% | 35.4% |
| Volume recycled | 1.86 million GT | 2.99 million GT |
- Growth in volume: nearly 60%.
- Target year in MIV 2030 was 2030; it was met five years early.
- BIMCO expects over 16,000 vessels to be recycled worldwide over a decade; India could handle 500-600 vessels a year.
- Minister Sarbananda Sonowal credited policy reforms, industry effort and respect for environmental and safety norms.
Background
- Maritime India Vision 2030: launched 2021 as a blueprint for the maritime sector; aims to make India the leading ship recycler.
- Hong Kong International Convention (2009): adopted in Hong Kong, in force globally from 26 June 2025; ensures recycled ships do not endanger health, safety or environment; needs an Inventory of Hazardous Materials, a Ship Recycling Plan and certificates.
- Alang-Sosiya Ship Recycling Yard: Bhavnagar district, Gujarat, on the Gulf of Khambhat; started 1983 with MV Kota Tenjong (beached 13 February 1983); 10 km beach, tidal range 10-11 m, gradient 15 degrees; overseen by the Gujarat Maritime Board.
Significance
- Positions India as a hub for responsible, sustainable ship recycling.
- Shows the effect of steady policy reform and compliance with international environmental and safety standards.
- Large global fleet retirements ahead give Indian yards a long pipeline of work.
Exam angle
- Source of ranking: UNCTAD maritime report; announcing ministry: Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
- Alang is in Bhavnagar, Gujarat.
- HKC entered into force on 26 June 2025.