India and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in sustainable ship recycling, with both sides expressing confidence in facilitating the inclusion of Indian ship recycling facilities under the European Union Ship Recycling Regulation (EUSRR). The discussions between Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and European Commissioner Jessika Roswall reviewed the ongoing audit and compliance process for Indian yards seeking EU recognition.
India has emerged as the world's leading ship recycling nation with a 35.4% global market share in 2025, up from 30.1% in 2024. The country recycled 2.99 million gross tons (GT) of ships during 2025, registering nearly 60% growth over the 1.86 million GT recycled in 2024. More than 30 Indian ship recycling yards have applied for EU recognition, with six yards currently undergoing the compliance and approval process. Three facilities have successfully completed all required compliance procedures and are now eligible to apply for inclusion under the EU regulatory framework.
The Indian government is facilitating the listing process through transparent audits, inspections, and regulatory compliance. Indian facilities have made significant investments in upgrading infrastructure and operational practices to meet international standards, including effluent treatment plants, scientific waste management systems, multi-speciality healthcare facilities supported by the Red Cross Society, and dedicated worker housing. The government conducts periodic and unannounced inspections to ensure highest standards of environmental compliance, worker safety, and operational transparency.
India aims to recycle nearly 16,000 ships over the next decade and has announced a financial commitment of USD 8 billion to support the growth of shipbuilding and ship recycling sectors. Commissioner Roswall proposed establishing a Joint Working Group comprising representatives from the Ministry of Environment and other relevant ministries to facilitate effective coordination. The EU emphasized the importance of unannounced inspections in maintaining compliance standards and noted that the matter would be discussed with EU member states during the autumn session before any final decision. Roswall also expressed willingness to visit Indian facilities after the consultation process and reaffirmed that the EU's approach remains consistent with India-EU Free Trade Agreement discussions and the Hong Kong International Convention provisions.