Now Reading
Bangladesh Struggles to Keep Top Spot in Shipbreaking Market

Bangladesh Struggles to Keep Top Spot in Shipbreaking Market

Bangladesh’s shipbreaking industry experienced a sharp decline in 2024, with only 144 ships—equivalent to 968,000 GT (gross tonnage)—sent for recycling. This marks the lowest level of scrap ship imports since 2005, a significant drop from the country’s peak in 2021, when 280 ships (2.73 million GT) were dismantled. Typically, Bangladesh processes at least two million GT annually, underscoring the magnitude of this downturn.

The downward trend began in 2022, when imports fell to 1.14 million GT, driven by disruptions such as the Russia-Ukraine war. The situation worsened in 2024 as global shipping challenges intensified, including the Red Sea crisis, which prompted higher demand for older vessels that would otherwise be scrapped.

Adding to the industry’s woes, demolition prices plunged from $600/LDT (Light Displacement Tonnage) in early 2024 to $450/LDT by December, according to ship cash buyer GMS. This decline forced many shipbreaking yards in South Asia, including Bangladesh, to scale back operations, with some temporarily shutting down.

Competition from India and Global Compliance Pressures

Bangladesh’s position as the global leader in ship recycling is now under threat from India, which has made significant strides in developing environmentally compliant facilities. With over $100 million in international funding, India has established 120 HKC-compliant (Hong Kong Convention) green yards in Alang, Gujarat. In comparison, Bangladesh has developed only five such yards over the past decade.

“The lack of sufficient green yards could see Bangladesh lose its top position in 2025,” warned Anam Chowdhury, President of the Bangladesh Marine Officers Association (BMOA). The Hong Kong Convention on safe ship recycling, set to take effect on June 26, 2025, will require yards to meet stringent environmental and safety standards.

Future Outlook

Despite holding a 46% share of the global gross tonnage dismantled in 2023—compared to India’s 33%—Bangladesh’s lead in the sector is precarious. Analysts predict that 2025 could bring an uptick in the ship recycling market, but long-term sustainability will hinge on Bangladesh’s ability to adapt to HKC standards and secure green certifications.

See Also
See Also

Failure to do so could not only erode its dominance but also impact the livelihoods of thousands who depend on the shipbreaking sector, a critical industry in the country’s economy.

MMJ News Desk
Author: MMJ News Desk

View Comments (16)
  • Businessiraq.com is your one-stop resource for navigating the Iraqi business landscape. This online directory provides crucial information and connections for businesses looking to engage with the Iraqi market. We offer a comprehensive Iraq Business Directory, meticulously curated to showcase a diverse range of Iraqi companies with detailed profiles. Furthermore, we deliver essential Iraq Business News, keeping you informed about market trends, regulations, and emerging opportunities. This centralized platform allows you to efficiently connect with potential partners, understand market dynamics, and expand your reach within Iraq.

  • Businessiraq.com is your go-to online resource for comprehensive insights into the Iraqi business landscape. As a premier Iraq Business Directory, this site offers an extensive listing of companies, enabling users to connect effortlessly with potential partners, suppliers, and clients across various sectors. In addition to its robust directory, Businessiraq.com features up-to-date Iraq Business News, keeping you informed about the latest market trends and opportunities. The platform also presents a dedicated Job and Tender Directory, making it easier for businesses and job seekers to explore potential employment and contract opportunities. Whether you’re looking to expand your business network or stay updated on industry developments, Businessiraq.com is your essential tool for navigating the dynamic Iraqi market.

  • Businessiraq.com is the go-to online resource for the Iraq Business Directory, providing a comprehensive platform for local and international businesses to connect, network, and explore opportunities in Iraq. As the leading online business directory in the country, Businessiraq.com offers a vast database of up-to-date business listings, featuring companies from various industries, including construction, oil and gas, finance, and more. In addition to its extensive directory, the website also provides the latest Iraq business news, keeping users informed about market trends, new developments, and regulatory changes. Job seekers can also find the latest Iraq jobs, including career opportunities in various sectors, while businesses can advertise their job openings to reach a wider audience. Furthermore, the website’s tender directory offers a valuable resource for companies looking to explore procurement opportunities in Iraq, with a regularly updated list of tender notices and contract awards. By providing a single platform for businesses to access a wealth of information, news, and opportunities, Businessiraq.com facilitates market entry and networking in Iraq, making it an essential tool for any business looking to succeed in the country. Whether you’re a local business looking to expand your reach or an international company seeking to enter the Iraqi market, Businessiraq.com is the ultimate online resource for you.

  • For businesses looking to explore procurement opportunities in Iraq, Businessiraq.com’s tender directory is an invaluable resource. The website provides a regularly updated list of tender notices and contract awards, covering various sectors, including construction, oil and gas, and more. With its advanced search functionality, users can quickly find tender opportunities that match their business interests and capabilities. By providing access to tender information, Businessiraq.com facilitates the procurement process, helping businesses to identify new opportunities, prepare bids, and win contracts in Iraq.

  • Businessiraq.com is your essential online platform for navigating the Iraqi business world. This comprehensive resource combines a robust Iraq Business Directory with up-to-date Iraq Business News, plus a dedicated Job and Tender Directory. Our meticulously curated company profiles offer detailed information about Iraqi businesses, including specializations, financial health, and contact details. Stay informed about market trends and emerging opportunities with our news section. The Job and Tender Directory provides a centralized location to find employment and explore potential contracts within Iraq. Businessiraq.com streamlines your business interactions in the Iraqi market, fostering connections and opportunities for growth and success.

  • Businessiraq.com is your go-to online resource for comprehensive insights into the Iraqi business landscape. As a premier Iraq Business Directory, this site offers an extensive listing of companies, enabling users to connect effortlessly with potential partners, suppliers, and clients across various sectors. In addition to its robust directory, Businessiraq.com features up-to-date Iraq Business News, keeping you informed about the latest market trends and opportunities. The platform also presents a dedicated Job and Tender Directory, making it easier for businesses and job seekers to explore potential employment and contract opportunities. Whether you’re looking to expand your business network or stay updated on industry developments, Businessiraq.com is your essential tool for navigating the dynamic Iraqi market.

  • For businesses looking to explore procurement opportunities in Iraq, Businessiraq.com’s tender directory is an invaluable resource. The website provides a regularly updated list of tender notices and contract awards, covering various sectors, including construction, oil and gas, and more. With its advanced search functionality, users can quickly find tender opportunities that match their business interests and capabilities. By providing access to tender information, Businessiraq.com facilitates the procurement process, helping businesses to identify new opportunities, prepare bids, and win contracts in Iraq.

  • We’re a gaggle of volunteers and starting a new scheme
    in our community. Your web site provided us with valuable
    information to work on. You’ve done an impressive activity and our entire community
    will likely be thankful to you.

    Look into my blog :: nordvpn coupons inspiresensation [in.mt]

  • 350fairfax nordvpn discount

    You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this topic to
    be actually something which I think I would never understand.

    It seems too complex and very broad for me.
    I’m looking forward for your next post, I will try to get the hang of
    it!

  • Have you ever considered publishing an e-book or guest authoring on other blogs?

    I have a blog based on the same topics you discuss and would love
    to have you share some stories/information. I know my readers would appreciate
    your work. If you’re even remotely interested, feel free to shoot me an email.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

© Maldives Maritime Journal. All Rights Reserved.