India Captures 35.4% Global Ship Recycling Share in 2025: UNCTAD Report
India has taken the lead in the global ship recycling industry, with 35.4% of the world's ship recycling activity in 2025, according to the latest report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This significant increase has important implications for the global economy, the environment, and the people involved in the industry.
India Surpasses 35.4% Global Ship Recycling Share in 2025
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed that India increased its share of global ship recycling activity to 35.4% in 2025 from 30.1% in 2024, as per the latest report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). According to the report, India's ship recycling industry has shown remarkable growth, outpacing other major ship recycling countries. The report highlights that India's ship recycling industry has been driven by its favorable business environment, skilled workforce, and government support. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has also stated that India's ship recycling industry has been growing at an impressive rate, with more than 1,000 ships being recycled in 2025 alone. This represents a significant increase from 2024, when India recycled around 800 ships.
Why India's Ship Recycling Industry Matters
India's dominance in the global ship recycling industry has significant implications for the global economy. With the largest share of the global market, India's ship recycling industry is expected to drive economic growth and create employment opportunities. Additionally, the industry's growth will also have a positive impact on the environment, as ship recycling is a more sustainable and eco-friendly option compared to building new ships. Furthermore, India's ship recycling industry is also expected to contribute to the country's economic development, as the industry generates significant revenue and creates jobs. The industry's growth is also expected to lead to the creation of new supply chain opportunities.
“The growth of India's ship recycling industry is a testament to the country's commitment to sustainable development and economic growth. We are proud to be a leader in this industry and look forward to continuing to drive its growth and development.”
What We Don't Know Yet
While India's dominance in the global ship recycling industry is a significant achievement, there are still many unanswered questions. For instance, what are the long-term implications of India's growth in the industry? How will the industry's growth impact the global economy and the environment? What are the challenges that India's ship recycling industry will face in the future? There is also a need for more research on the environmental impact of ship recycling.
What to Watch
As India continues to grow its share of the global ship recycling industry, there are several key factors to watch. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways will be closely monitoring the industry's growth and working to address any challenges that may arise. Additionally, other countries will be keeping a close eye on India's progress and may look to emulate its success. The industry's growth is also expected to lead to increased investment in the sector.
Despite being a significant contributor to the global ship recycling industry, India's ship recycling facilities are often smaller and more labor-intensive than those found in other countries, with some facilities still using traditional methods to dismantle ships.
India's growth in the global ship recycling industry is a testament to the country's commitment to sustainable development and economic growth. As the industry continues to grow and develop, it will be crucial to address any challenges that may arise and to ensure that the industry's growth has a positive impact on the environment.
