Delhi, India: India and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in sustainable ship recycling, with three Indian recycling yards nearing recognition under the European Union Ship Recycling Regulation (EUSRR). The development comes as India strengthens its position as a global leader in environmentally responsible ship recycling while advancing investments in shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure.
The announcement was made during discussions between Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and Jessika Roswall, the European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, during the ongoing India-EU collaboration on ship recycling.
According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, more than 30 Indian ship recycling facilities have applied for recognition under the European Union framework. Of these, six are currently undergoing compliance and approval procedures. Three facilities have successfully completed all required inspections and are now eligible for inclusion under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation framework.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal said India has emerged as one of the world’s leading ship recycling nations and continues to strengthen its role as a global centre for sustainable maritime recycling. He noted that the country’s share of the global ship recycling market increased from 30.1% in 2024 to 35.4% in 2025, reflecting steady growth in environmentally responsible recycling practices.
The minister also highlighted the government’s long-term maritime vision, stating that India plans to recycle nearly 16,000 ships over the next decade. Supporting this objective, the government has committed USD 8 billion to expand the country’s shipbuilding and recycling ecosystem. The investment is aimed at modernising infrastructure, creating employment opportunities and promoting a circular economy through responsible recycling practices.
The ministry said Indian ship recycling facilities continue to adopt globally accepted environmental safeguards and worker welfare measures. These include effluent treatment systems, scientific waste management practices, dedicated healthcare facilities supported by the Red Cross Society, worker housing and regular environmental inspections to maintain compliance with national standards.
The discussions also focused on accelerating the ongoing recognition process for Indian recycling yards under the EU framework. Once approved, these facilities are expected to strengthen global ship recycling capacity, encourage higher environmental and safety standards, and further reinforce cooperation between India and the European Union in sustainable maritime development.
Source: This article is based on an official press release issued by the Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India
Press Release Page | Press Information Bureau
