India has achieved a significant milestone in the maritime sector by becoming the world’s second-largest supplier of seafarers, according to the BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2026. India now contributes 311,936 maritime professionals, accounting for 12.16% of the global seafaring workforce, placing it behind only the Philippines and ahead of China, the Russian Federation, and Indonesia.
The achievement reflects India’s rapid growth in maritime education, skill development, and global competitiveness, marking a major transformation in the country’s shipping industry.
India Rises to Second Position Globally
The latest BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2026 highlights India’s remarkable progress in the global maritime workforce.
Global Ranking of Seafarer-Supplying Countries
| Rank | Country | Global Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Philippines | Highest |
| 2 | India | 12.16% |
| 3 | China | — |
| 4 | Russian Federation | — |
| 5 | Indonesia | — |
India currently has 311,936 seafarers, making it the second-largest contributor to the international shipping industry.
India’s Remarkable Maritime Growth
India’s rise to the second position represents one of the most significant transformations in its maritime sector over the past decade.
India’s Growth Over the Years
| Year | Global Share | Global Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 5.2% | 5th |
| 2021 | 6.0% | 5th |
| 2026 | 12.16% | 2nd |
In 2015, India contributed only 5.2% of the world’s seafarers and ranked fifth globally. By 2021, the country’s share had increased modestly to 6%, though it remained in fifth place.
The 2026 BIMCO-ICS Report marks a decisive breakthrough, with India nearly doubling its global share and climbing to second place.
Factors Behind India’s Rise
India’s strong performance in the maritime sector can be attributed to several factors:
Expansion of Maritime Training
- Increase in maritime education and training institutes.
- Improved quality of seafarer certification and skill development.
Government Initiatives
- Promotion of India’s maritime sector under national development initiatives.
- Focus on enhancing employment opportunities in the global shipping industry.
Growing Global Demand
- Rising international demand for skilled Indian seafarers due to their technical expertise and professionalism.
Importance of Seafarers in Global Trade
Seafarers play a crucial role in international trade by operating merchant ships that transport goods across the world.
More than 80% of global merchandise trade by volume is carried through maritime transport, making skilled seafarers essential for the smooth functioning of the global economy.
India’s growing contribution strengthens its position as a key player in the global maritime industry.
About the BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report
The BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report is one of the most authoritative studies on the global maritime labour market.
It is jointly prepared by:
- BIMCO (Baltic and International Maritime Council) – the world’s largest international shipping association.
- International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) – the principal global trade association representing the shipping industry.
The report assesses the availability, demand, and distribution of seafarers across the world and serves as an important reference for governments and the maritime industry.
Significance of the Achievement
India’s rise to the second position demonstrates the country’s expanding influence in the global maritime economy. The achievement highlights the success of investments in maritime education, skill development, and workforce training.
It also strengthens India’s role in supporting international shipping and aligns with the country’s vision of becoming a leading global maritime hub.
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