India Becomes Second-Largest Global Supplier of Seafarers, Surpassing China

India has officially claimed the title of the world's second-largest provider of seafarers, contributing an impressive total of 311,936 maritime professionals to the international shipping industry. This significant achievement is highlighted in the BIMCO-ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2026, which indicates that India now accounts for 12.16% of the global maritime workforce, positioning itself just behind the Philippines. This marks a remarkable increase from its previous share of 5.2% in 2015, showcasing the country's rapid growth in this vital sector.

The breakdown of India's maritime workforce reveals that it supplies 140,718 officers, which constitutes 13.41% of the global total, alongside 171,218 ratings, representing 11.29% of the worldwide share. This advancement has allowed India to outpace other significant players in the maritime field, including China and Russia. Notably, the participation of female seafarers has also seen a substantial rise, increasing from approximately 1,600 in 2021 to over 7,000 by 2025. This growth in female representation underscores India's commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the maritime workforce.