By Soniya:
New Delhi: India has achieved a major milestone in the global maritime industry by becoming the world’s second-largest supplier of seafarers, according to the BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2026. India now contributes 311,936 seafarers, accounting for 12.16% of the global maritime workforce, behind only the Philippines and ahead of China, Russia, and Indonesia.
The report highlights India’s remarkable progress over the past decade. From contributing just 5.2% of the global seafaring workforce in 2015 and ranking fifth, India has nearly doubled its share to 12.16% in 2026, climbing to the second position worldwide.
This growth has been driven by the expansion of maritime training institutes, improved skill development and certification, supportive government initiatives, and increasing global demand for skilled Indian seafarers.
Seafarers play a vital role in global trade, with over 80% of world merchandise trade by volume transported through maritime routes. India’s growing presence in the global shipping workforce strengthens its position as a key maritime nation and supports its vision of becoming a leading global maritime hub.
The BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report, jointly prepared by the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), is regarded as one of the world’s most authoritative assessments of the global maritime labour market. India’s rise reflects its expanding influence in international shipping and the success of sustained investments in maritime education and workforce development.
