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The global ship recycling market has entered a new chapter as the United States and Iran sign an interim peace agreement, reopening the Strait of Hormuz after more than 100 days of closure. In Week 25 of 2026, Brent crude collapsed to approximately USD 78 per barrel, erasing the entire war premium that had carried prices above USD 126 in late April. WTI also eased toward USD 75, while sanctions relief and the restart of halted Gulf oil production shifted market focus from supply disruption to potential oversupply. For the global ship recycling industry, this is a major turning point. The two forces that kept older vessels trading instead of recycling, high bunker costs and strong freight earnings, are now weakening together. The Baltic Dry Index eased to around 2,653 on June 17, while daily Capesize earnings fell to approximately USD 35,162 from the late-May high near USD 49,511. However, the timing remains difficult. Although peace has reopened the sea route and reduced the bunker-cost floor, the Indian subcontinent is now deep in the monsoon season. Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan continue to show demand, financing, and yard appetite, but beaching activity remains limited by weather. This week's episode examines: The interim US-Iran peace agreement and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz Brent crude collapsing toward USD 78 and the evaporation of the war premium Why lower bunker costs could finally release older vessels for recycling The continued cooling of dry bulk freight and Capesize earnings Why the monsoon now controls the beaching calendar across South Asia Bangladesh's stable Taka, steady steel prices, and strong post-monsoon outlook India's Rupee rally, softer Alang steel, and improving macro position Pakistan's firm Rupee, strong steel pricing, and fading Gulf proximity premium Turkey's Lira breaking 46 per dollar and Aliaga's continued EU-regulated niche Why the second half of 2026 may bring the strongest candidate flow since February Key market takeaway: Peace has been signed, the Strait of Hormuz has reopened, Brent has returned near pre-war levels, and the freight premium is cooling. The deferred wave of recycling candidates is now being primed, but the monsoon remains the immediate constraint. The ships are free to move, but the beaches must wait for the rains to ease. Peace is signed. The premium is gone. The ships are moving. But the rains reign. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our GMS website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X for daily updates.
Why do ship recycling prices differ between Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, and Turkey when all markets are driven by steel? In Episode 2 of Steel, Ships, and Recycling Values, Nayeem Noor, VP - Business Development and Communications at GMS, speaks with Jamie Dalzell, Head of the GMS Singapore Office, about why recycling destinations convert steel value into bids differently. The discussion explains how Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, and Turkey each price vessels through their own mix of steel demand, currency, banking support, LC availability, yard appetite, compliance capacity, downstream liquidity, and timing risk. This week's market backdrop shows why regional price spreads matter. Bangladesh continues to show strong demand and workable LC support, but monsoon timing and physical beaching windows remain key constraints. Pakistan remains firm when steel and currency align, while India continues to offer depth, compliance capacity, and flexibility even when it is not the highest headline market. Turkey remains a distinct recycling destination for EU-linked, regulatory, or geography-driven cases. For shipowners, brokers, financiers, traders, and maritime professionals, this episode offers a practical explanation of why the highest headline price is not always the best recycling deal. The right recycling destination depends on the vessel, buyer quality, finance, delivery terms, compliance requirements, and execution risk. Stay tuned to GMS Podcasts for more episodes of Inside the Markets covering ship recycling trends, steel prices, vessel supply, freight markets, and maritime intelligence from key recycling and shipping hubs worldwide. Subscribe to GMS Podcasts and follow GMS on LinkedIn for future updates and discussions. Stay tuned to GMS Podcasts for more episodes of Inside the Markets covering ship recycling trends, trading flows and maritime market intelligence from key recycling and shipping hubs worldwide. Subscribe to the GMS Podcasts and follow GMS on LinkedIn for future updates and discussions.
The war premium in global shipping and energy markets has finally cracked, but the ship recycling market is still waiting for the final signature. In Week 24 of 2026, Brent crude fell sharply toward USD 89 per barrel, its lowest level since March, after President Trump suspended planned military strikes against Iran and signalled that a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could be signed as early as this weekend. Iran is also reported to be moving closer to approval, although no final agreement has yet been confirmed. For the global ship recycling industry, this is a major turning point. The two forces that kept older vessels trading instead of recycling, high bunker costs and strong freight earnings, are now softening at the same time. The Baltic Dry Index eased to around 2,818, while Capesize earnings cooled to approximately USD 40,274 per day after last week's peak near USD 49,511. However, the timing remains difficult. The monsoon has now taken control of the beaching calendar across the Indian subcontinent, limiting near-term recycling activity even as macro conditions begin to improve. This week's episode examines: Brent crude falling toward USD 89 and the cracking of the war premium The possible US-Iran agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz The proposed 30-day de-mining timeline for Hormuz Why lower oil prices and softer freight could eventually release older tonnage Why the monsoon now controls beaching activity across South Asia Bangladesh's stable Taka, steady steel prices, and strong Q3 demand outlook India's Rupee recovery, softer Alang steel prices, and improving macro position Pakistan's rising annual CPI, easing monthly inflation, and firm Gadani pricing How a Hormuz reopening may gradually reduce Pakistan's Gulf proximity premium Turkey's inflation pressure, Lira stability, and continued EU-regulated recycling niche Subcontinent recycling prices, vessel supply, and cash buyer sentiment Why the second half of 2026 may look more constructive than the first Key market takeaway: The war premium has cracked, Brent has moved below USD 90, freight has cooled, and currencies across the recycling markets have repaired themselves. But the beaching window is now governed by the monsoon. If the Hormuz agreement is signed and the 30-day de-mining clock begins, older tonnage may eventually face renewed pressure toward recycling, but not immediately. The premium cracks. The pen hovers. The monsoon rules. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our GMS website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X for daily updates.
Steel is one of the most important drivers of ship recycling values, but recycling offers are not based on steel prices alone. In the first episode of Steel, Ships, and Recycling Values, Nayeem Noor, VP - Business Development and Communications at GMS, speaks with Jamie Dalzell, Head of the GMS Singapore Office, about how recyclers assess steel markets when pricing vessels for recycling. The discussion looks at why plate prices matter, how re-rollable steel is valued, and why local demand, financing, currency, inventories, import pressure, and timing risk all influence the final recycling offer. The episode also explains why strong steel prices do not always lead to more vessels being sold for recycling. Freight markets, trading opportunities, seasonal timing, and owner strategy all play an important role in deciding whether a ship actually comes to market. For shipowners, brokers, financiers, traders, and maritime professionals, this episode offers a practical look at how recycling values are formed and why steel remains central to the global ship recycling market. Stay tuned to GMS Podcasts for more episodes of Inside the Markets covering ship recycling trends, trading flows and maritime market intelligence from key recycling and shipping hubs worldwide. Subscribe to the GMS Podcasts and follow GMS on LinkedIn for future updates and discussions.
Traffic is returning through the Strait of Hormuz, but for the global ship recycling market, the timing has come too late. In Week 23 of 2026, vessel movements through Hormuz improved materially, even though the formal US-Iran framework remains unsigned. Brent crude eased into the USD 95–97 per barrel range as markets priced in de-escalation, while freight markets moved in the opposite direction. The Baltic Dry Index climbed above 3,200, and Capesize earnings touched nearly USD 49,500 per day, keeping older vessels trading rather than heading for recycling. Across the subcontinent, the key issue remains unchanged: demand is present, financing is available, pricing is firm, but tonnage supply remains limited. The pre-monsoon beaching window has now effectively closed, shifting the main constraint from geopolitics to weather. This week's episode examines: • Strait of Hormuz traffic recovery and US-Iran deal uncertainty • Brent crude easing and global energy market reaction • Baltic Dry Index strength and Capesize freight earnings • Why strong freight continues to delay ship recycling supply • Bangladesh ship recycling market stability and Taka performance • Chattogram demand, LC financing, and monsoon impact • Indian Rupee recovery and Alang market conditions • RBI policy measures and India's ship recycling outlook • Pakistan Rupee strength and Gadani pricing leadership • Turkey's Lira stability, inflation pressure, and Aliaga's EU-regulated niche • Subcontinent recycling prices, vessel supply, and cash buyer sentiment • Why the market enters monsoon season with demand intact but supply absent Key market takeaway: The Strait of Hormuz is gradually returning to operation, Brent crude has eased, and currency conditions have improved across parts of the subcontinent. However, dry bulk freight remains strong, older vessels continue trading, and the monsoon has now closed the practical recycling window. The traffic returns. The window is gone. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our GMS website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X for daily updates.
After seven weeks of uncertainty, the global ship recycling market finally received its strongest diplomatic breakthrough yet. In Week 22 of 2026, the United States and Iran reached a tentative agreement to extend the ceasefire and begin reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement triggered a sharp decline in Brent crude oil prices, with Brent falling back toward USD 96-97 per barrel as markets began pricing in the prospect of restored Middle East energy flows. Yet despite the diplomatic progress, the ship recycling sector remains constrained by one critical factor: timing. While the Hormuz reopening narrative gathered momentum, the subcontinent recycling markets entered the final stages of the pre-monsoon season. With Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan approaching monsoon-related operational slowdowns, the long-awaited improvement in market sentiment arrived just as recycling activity faces its seasonal closure. Freight markets also remain supportive for vessel owners. The Baltic Dry Index strengthened above 3,100, Capesize earnings exceeded USD 44,000 per day, and dry bulk freight returns continued encouraging owners to keep older vessels trading rather than recycling them. This week's episode examines: • US-Iran ceasefire extension and Hormuz reopening developments • Brent crude oil decline and energy market reaction • Baltic Dry Index performance and dry bulk freight trends • Capesize and Panamax earnings outlook • Bangladesh ship recycling market conditions and LC financing stability • Indian Rupee recovery and Alang recycling market developments • Pakistan Rupee strength and Gadani pricing trends • Turkey's inflation outlook and Aliaga recycling market activity • Monsoon season impact on ship recycling decisions • Vessel supply shortages and demolition market sentiment • Cash buyer outlook and subcontinent recycling pricing • Global ship recycling market trends for owners, brokers, recyclers, and investors Key market takeaway: The deal the recycling market waited months to see has finally arrived. Oil prices have eased, diplomatic momentum has improved, and the Strait of Hormuz may eventually reopen. However, freight earnings remain elevated, vessel supply remains scarce, and the monsoon season is effectively closing the recycling window across the subcontinent. The passage may finally be opening. The recycling window has already closed. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our GMS website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X for daily updates.
Week 21 marks a major turning point in the global ship recycling market as the strongest reopening signal yet emerges from the Strait of Hormuz. Three supertankers transited the Strait for the first time since March, while President Trump said the United States is in the “final stages” of talks with Iran. Brent crude eased more than 5% to around USD 105 per barrel, and WTI moved below USD 100. However, for ship recycling, the timing remains critical. With only around one week left before the practical monsoon slowdown across the sub-continent, the improved passage signal may have arrived too late to release meaningful recycling tonnage into the market. Freight markets remain supportive for owners to keep older vessels trading. The Baltic Dry Index closed around 3,005 after peaking above 3,092, while Capesize earnings remained above USD 40,000 per day. Panamax earnings strengthened further, keeping the trading premium intact for older dry bulk vessels. Bangladesh continues to show strong operational stability, with the Taka holding around 122.87 against the U.S. Dollar and the Letter of Credit pipeline functioning for a sixth consecutive week. Bangladesh's April CPI rose to 9.04%, showing that inflationary pressure has reached Chattogram, but the impact remains contained compared with Pakistan and Turkey. India faces renewed currency pressure as the Rupee decisively broke above 96, touching a fresh all-time low near 96.97 against the U.S. Dollar. Despite this, India's April CPI remained calm at 3.48%, comfortably within the RBI's tolerance band. Alang remains the lowest-priced sub-continent destination, while retaining its strong HKC compliance advantage. Pakistan continues to consolidate its position, with the Pakistani Rupee holding firm around 278.63 against the U.S. Dollar. Local steel prices remain strong, keeping Gadani in one of the firmest pricing positions globally, supported by currency stability and the State Bank's earlier rate hike. Turkey remains structurally uncompetitive for mainstream tonnage despite another record low in the Turkish Lira. Aliaga continues to focus mainly on EU-regulated recycling candidates, where compliance requirements outweigh price differentials. This week's central market message is clear: Hormuz passage may be opening, Brent has eased, and diplomacy has reaccelerate, but the recycling window is closing. With freight earnings still elevated and monsoon approaching, recycling supply remains limited across all major destinations. This episode covers: Global ship recycling market trends Strait of Hormuz reopening signals Brent crude and WTI price movements Baltic Dry Index and dry bulk freight strength Capesize, Panamax, Supramax and Handysize earnings Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Turkey recycling markets Bangladesh inflation and Taka stability India Rupee record low and CPI performance Pakistan Rupee stability and Gadani pricing strength Turkey Lira weakness and Aliaga's EU-focused role Hong Kong Convention-compliant recycling yards Monsoon impact on ship recycling activity Cash buyer sentiment and recycling pricing outlook Vessel supply, backlog and owner decision-making Key Market Developments This Week Three supertankers crossed the Strait of Hormuz for the first time since March President Trump said U.S.–Iran talks are in the “final stages” Brent crude eased more than 5% to around USD 105 per barrel WTI moved below USD 100 per barrel Baltic Dry Index closed around 3,005 after peaking above 3,092 Capesize earnings remained above USD 40,000 per day Panamax earnings strengthened to more than USD 22,000 per day Bangladesh Taka remained stable around 122.87 against the U.S. Dollar Bangladesh April CPI rose to 9.04% Bangladesh LC pipeline remained operational for a sixth consecutive week Indian Rupee touched a fresh all-time low around 96.97 against the U.S. Dollar India April CPI remained controlled at 3.48% Pakistan Rupee held firm around 278.63 against the U.S. Dollar Gadani pricing remained among the strongest globally Turkish Lira weakened to a fresh record low around 45.58 against the U.S. Dollar Aliaga remained focused on EU-regulated tonnage Monsoon window narrowed to approximately one week Recycling tonnage supply remained limited despite stronger reopening signals For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X for daily updates.
Week 20 marks a decisive shift in the global ship recycling market as diplomatic momentum around Hormuz stalls, Brent crude rebounds above USD 107, and freight markets continue strengthening across the dry bulk sector. Despite last week's temporary optimism surrounding a possible ceasefire framework, owners are still holding onto older vessels as trading earnings remain exceptionally firm. The Baltic Dry Index breaking above 3,000 and Capesize earnings surpassing USD 43,000 per day continue reinforcing the economics of keeping aging tonnage active rather than recycling. As a result, the expected release of recycling candidates into the sub-continent has once again failed to materialize. Bangladesh remains the leading recycling destination on pricing and operational readiness, with stable currency conditions, active LC flows, and competitive steel plate pricing supporting Chattogram buyers. However, supply shortages persist as owners continue delaying recycling decisions ahead of monsoon closure. India faces renewed pressure as the Rupee weakens to another all-time low near 95.71 against the U.S. Dollar. Alang remains the lowest-priced destination while maintaining its strong HKC compliance advantage with more than 110 compliant yards operational. Pakistan's market position stabilizes after the State Bank's recent rate hike helped support the Pakistani Rupee, even as inflation pressures remain elevated. Gadani continues offering some of the firmest pricing in the market, supported by proximity advantages linked to ongoing Hormuz uncertainty. Turkey remains structurally uncompetitive for mainstream tonnage despite continued weakness in the Turkish Lira and rising inflation, leaving Aliaga focused primarily on EU-regulated recycling candidates. With only around two weeks remaining before the practical monsoon closure window, the central market question is no longer whether demand exists. It clearly does. The question is whether owners will release tonnage before the window closes. So far, strong freight markets, elevated oil prices, and unresolved geopolitical risk continue preventing meaningful supply flow into recycling yards. This episode covers: Global ship recycling market trends Brent crude oil rebound and Hormuz developments Baltic Dry Index and freight market strength Vessel recycling supply shortages Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey market updates Steel plate pricing trends Currency movements and inflation pressures HKC-compliant recycling yards Monsoon impact on ship recycling activity Cash buyer sentiment and recycling pricing outlook Key Market Developments This Week • Brent rebounds from USD 96 back above USD 107 • Diplomatic momentum around Hormuz stalls • Baltic Dry Index breaks above 3,000 • Capesize earnings surge above USD 43,000/day • Freight strength continues delaying recycling decisions • Q2 recycling backlog hardens further • Bangladesh remains strongest pricing destination • Chattogram LC pipeline stays fully operational • India Rupee falls to fresh record lows near 95.71 • Alang maintains strong HKC compliance positioning • Pakistan Rupee firms despite inflation pressures • Gadani pricing remains among the strongest globally • Turkey inflation rises while Aliaga remains niche • Limited vessel supply continues across all destinations • Monsoon closure window narrows to approximately 2 weeks • Owners continue prioritizing trading over recycling For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X for daily updates.
In this episode of GMS Podcasts, Dr. Anand Hiremath, CEO of the Sustainable Ship and Offshore Recycling Program, continues his conversation with Mr. Vidhyadhar Rane, General Secretary of the Alang Sosiya Ship Recycling & General Workers Association, on the Hong Kong Convention, EUSRR and the future of worker-centred ship recycling in Alang. The discussion looks at the EU Ship Recycling Regulation from the worker's perspective. Mr. Rane explains that workers support high standards, stronger safety systems, environmental protection, better training and responsible recycling. At the same time, he raises concern that Indian ship recycling yards, especially in Alang, have made major progress but have not been approved under the EU list. Alang is not only an industrial location. It supports a large workforce and a wider local economy. More than 50,000 direct and indirect workers depend on ship recycling in Alang, including yard workers, transport workers, re-rolling mill workers, scrap handlers, service providers, small businesses and families. The episode also explains why the Hong Kong Convention is seen as a practical global framework for safe and environmentally sound ship recycling. HKC creates responsibilities for shipowners, recycling yards, flag States, recycling States and other stakeholders. It allows improvement to take place where ship recycling is actually happening, while supporting worker safety, training, environmental controls and welfare. With more than 110 HKC-compliant yards in Alang, the conversation highlights how the industry has changed through investment in infrastructure, impermeable flooring, drainage systems, equipment, documentation, emergency preparedness, hazardous material handling and worker training. A key focus of this episode is how HKC can keep evolving for workers. The discussion covers stronger worker participation in yard-level safety meetings, practical training, local-language communication, visual demonstrations, refresher training, better communication between workers and supervisors, and greater recognition of ship recycling workers' skills. This episode is useful for shipowners, recyclers, cash buyers, regulators, maritime lawyers, sustainability professionals, ESG teams, compliance officers, unions, circular economy stakeholders and anyone following HKC implementation, EUSRR, Indian ship recycling yards, Alang workers and responsible ship recycling in India. Topics discussed in this episode What EUSRR means from a worker perspective Why workers support high standards in ship recycling The impact of non-approval of Indian yards under the EU list Why fair recognition matters for HKC-compliant yards in Alang How more than 110 HKC-compliant yards have changed India's ship recycling industry The role of more than 50,000 direct and indirect workers in Alang's recycling ecosystem Why HKC is seen as a practical global framework for responsible ship recycling How worker participation can improve yard-level safety discussions The importance of local-language and visual safety training Why refresher training helps strengthen safety awareness The role of supervisors in improving communication and safety outcomes Recognition of ship recycling workers' skills, dignity and contribution How responsible ship recycling supports steel recovery and the circular economy The future of Alang under HKC implementation
Week 19 marks a major shift in the global ship recycling market as Brent crude falls sharply, diplomacy re-enters the Hormuz conversation, and freight markets move strongly in the opposite direction. Despite Brent correcting from USD 126.41 per barrel to near USD 100, the expected release of recycling tonnage has not materialized. The Baltic Dry Index climbed to 2,991, up 12% from the previous week, with Capesize earnings surging and daily returns moving above USD 42,000. Strong freight earnings continue to encourage owners to keep older vessels trading rather than sending them for recycling, keeping supply tight across the Indian sub-continent. Bangladesh remains the leading recycling destination, supported by firm demand, a stable Taka, sustained Letter of Credit flow, and competitive steel plate pricing. However, Chattogram continues to face the same core issue: buyers are ready, but vessels are not arriving. India saw sharp currency volatility, with the Rupee touching a fresh low around 95.27 before recovering near 94.18 on diplomatic headlines. Alang remains the lowest-priced sub-continent destination, but its HKC-compliant yard base continues to support regulated tonnage demand. Pakistan's position has become more complicated. Gadani pricing remains firm, with steel plate levels around USD 679 per ton, but April inflation surged to 10.9%, prompting a 100-basis-point rate hike to 11.5%. Pakistan's Gulf proximity premium still holds, but its earlier stability advantage has narrowed. Turkey remains structurally uncompetitive for mainstream tonnage, with the Lira weakening to a fresh record low and April inflation rising to 32.37%. Aliaga continues to rely mainly on EU-regulated tonnage, where compliance can outweigh the price gap. With only around 3 weeks left before the monsoon window closes, the central question is no longer whether demand exists. It does. The question is whether diplomacy can release vessel supply in time. For now, strong freight, unresolved Hormuz risks, inflation pressure, and limited candidate flow mean the backlog holds. This episode covers ship recycling prices, vessel supply, freight markets, oil prices, currencies, inflation, HKC compliance, and the latest developments across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey. Key Market Developments This Week • Brent crude falls from USD 126.41 to near USD 100 • Diplomacy re-enters the Hormuz discussion, but safe passage remains unresolved • Baltic Dry Index rises to 2,991, up 12% week-on-week • Capesize earnings strengthen, with daily returns above USD 42,000 • Strong freight continues to delay ship recycling decisions • Bangladesh remains the leading destination on demand and pricing • Chattogram LC pipeline remains stable and functional • India's Rupee touches 95.27 before recovering near 94.18 • Alang remains lowest-priced but retains strong HKC compliance advantage • Pakistan CPI jumps to 10.9%, triggering a 100-basis-point rate hike • Gadani pricing remains firm, but Pakistan's advantage narrows • Turkish Lira weakens to a fresh record low near 45.24 • Turkey inflation rises to 32.37%, keeping Aliaga niche and outpriced • No meaningful supply release despite Brent correction • Monsoon window narrows to approximately 3 weeks • Q1 overhang remains locked into a Q2 backlog
In this episode, Dr. Anand Hiremath, CEO of the Sustainable Ship and Offshore Recycling Program, speaks with Mr. Vidhyadhar Rane, General Secretary of the Alang Sosiya Ship Recycling & General Workers' Association, about what the Hong Kong Convention means for workers in Alang. The discussion looks at ship recycling from the worker's perspective. Alang has been part of the global ship recycling industry for decades, and the sector has changed significantly through investment, training, infrastructure upgrades, compliance systems, and stronger safety practices. With more than 110 HKC-compliant yards in Alang, the episode explains how the Hong Kong Convention has helped bring greater structure to worker safety, training, PPE use, emergency preparedness, hazardous material handling, and environmental controls. The conversation also highlights that Alang's progress did not begin only with HKC. Yard owners have invested heavily over the years in infrastructure, impermeable flooring, drainage systems, safety equipment, training areas, documentation, and emergency response systems. A key focus of the episode is the role of workers themselves. Ship recycling is skilled work, and workers play an essential role in steel recovery, dismantling, recycling, and the wider circular economy. HKC has helped make worker training and safety more formal, more visible, and more consistent. The episode also explores the importance of training in local languages for Alang's migrant workforce. Since workers come from different Indian states and speak different languages, practical communication, demonstrations, pictures, and clear instructions are essential for real safety outcomes on the ground. Looking ahead, the conversation emphasizes that HKC works best when yard owners invest, supervisors guide, unions engage, and workers actively participate in safe working practices. This episode is useful for shipowners, recyclers, cash buyers, regulators, sustainability professionals, ESG teams, maritime lawyers, compliance officers, circular economy stakeholders, and anyone following responsible ship recycling in India. Topics discussed in this episode What the Hong Kong Convention means for workers in Alang How HKC has helped structure worker safety and training Why more than 110 HKC-compliant yards matter for India's ship recycling industry Yard-level investment in infrastructure, safety systems, and compliance The role of migrant workers in Alang's ship recycling sector Why training in local languages improves safety outcomes PPE, hot work safety, emergency preparedness, and hazardous material awareness Worker confidence, dignity, and recognition in ship recycling The role of Alang in steel recovery and the circular economy Why current conditions in Alang should be judged by present-day progress, not old perceptions
Week 18 marks a structural turning point in global ship recycling markets as the situation in the Strait of Hormuz shifts from disruption to sustained blockade. What was previously seen as a temporary constraint has now evolved into a large scale supply shock, with oil markets reacting sharply and reshaping the economics of vessel trading and recycling. Brent crude surged to multi year highs, briefly reaching USD 126 per barrel before stabilizing above the USD 110 range. This sharp increase reflects a significant tightening in global energy supply, with Hormuz transit flows dropping to nearly four percent of normal levels. The scale of disruption is now being described as one of the largest in history, with no immediate resolution in sight. Despite this volatility in energy markets, freight rates remain firm. The Baltic Dry Index continues to hold near recent highs, supported by strong Capesize and Supramax earnings. Elevated freight returns are reinforcing vessel trading economics, keeping older tonnage active in the market and delaying recycling decisions. Currency movements across the sub continent reflect varying exposure to the energy shock. The Indian Rupee has weakened to record lows due to heavy reliance on Hormuz linked imports, while Pakistan's Rupee has remained stable, providing a relative advantage. Bangladesh continues to operate within a stable range, and the Turkish Lira has shown modest recovery. Bangladesh remains the leading destination with strong pricing, improved financing conditions, and a cleared Letter of Credit pipeline. However, the market continues to face a lack of available vessels. India maintains its structural advantage through a large base of compliant yards, though currency pressure and energy exposure continue to weigh on competitiveness. Pakistan is emerging as the strongest structural player this quarter, supported by stable currency, firm steel pricing, and proximity to Gulf trade routes. Turkey remains limited to niche activity due to its pricing gap with the sub continent. No recycling transactions were reported this week, reinforcing the ongoing supply shortage. As the monsoon window narrows to approximately four weeks, the expected release of vessels is increasingly being deferred. The Q1 overhang is now transitioning into a confirmed Q2 backlog. This episode provides a detailed analysis of ship recycling trends, recycling pricing, freight dynamics, and the broader geopolitical factors shaping supply across global markets. Key Market Developments this Week • Hormuz disruption shifts into a structural blockade • Brent crude spikes to USD 126 before stabilizing above USD 110 • Global oil supply shock intensifies with flows near four percent of normal • Baltic Dry Index holds steady with firm vessel earnings • Strong freight rates continue to discourage recycling activity • Indian Rupee weakens to record lows on energy exposure • Pakistan Rupee stabilizes, strengthening relative positioning • Bangladesh maintains top pricing with improved LC processing • India retains compliance strength despite currency pressure • Pakistan benefits from Gulf proximity and structural alignment • Turkey remains limited to EU regulated recycling segment • No recycling transactions reported across all destinations • Q1 tonnage overhang transitions into a growing Q2 backlog Links & Resources Subscribe to GMS Weekly: https://www.gmsinc.net/get-in-touch/#SubscribeToGMS GMS Mobile App: https://onelink.to/gms-app LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gms-leadership X (Twitter): https://x.com/GMS_Leadership Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gms_leadership
In this episode of GMS Podcasts, Jamie Dalzell, Head of GMS Singapore, speaks with Nayeem Noor, VP of Business Development at GMS, about how the ongoing Iran war is influencing shipping and ship recycling markets. With disruption around the Strait of Hormuz, the expectation across the industry was that recycling supply would increase. Historically, geopolitical shocks tend to push older or less efficient vessels toward demolition. That pattern is not playing out this time. Instead, freight markets have remained firm. Routes have lengthened, risk premiums have increased, and older vessels continue to find employment. Even with higher operational and geopolitical risk, many ships are still commercially viable, which is delaying recycling decisions. The discussion focuses on this shift in market behaviour. Rather than exiting the market, owners are continuing to trade as long as earnings justify it. As a result, recycling yards are not seeing the expected flow of tonnage. The episode also looks at the current position across major recycling destinations. India offers compliance strength through Alang, Bangladesh has demand but remains short of supply, Pakistan has regional advantages but faces execution challenges, and Turkey continues to operate in a more limited, specialised segment. A key takeaway is that supply has not disappeared. It has been deferred. The ships are still in the system, but they are not being released for recycling. Looking ahead, the conversation considers what could change this dynamic. If freight softens or costs rise, recycling supply could return quickly. At the same time, damaged or disrupted vessels linked to the Iran conflict may eventually enter the recycling stream, bringing a different set of operational and compliance considerations. This episode will be useful for shipowners, recyclers, cash buyers and industry participants following freight markets and the impact of the Iran war on global shipping. Topics discussed in this episode How the Iran war is affecting global shipping patterns Why disruption is not translating into recycling supply The role of freight markets in extending vessel life Owner decision making during periods of uncertainty The concept of delayed supply in ship recycling Regional dynamics across India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Turkey Pricing challenges and hesitation in the recycling market Handling considerations for damaged or disrupted vessels What could trigger the return of recycling supply
Week 17 of 2026 marks a decisive shift in global ship recycling markets as geopolitical risk intensifies and supply constraints deepen. In this episode, Grace and Ryan break down the latest developments shaping the industry, including the indefinite extension of the US-Iran ceasefire, renewed escalation in the Strait of Hormuz, and its direct impact on oil, freight, and recycling dynamics. Brent crude has rebounded toward the mid-90 dollar range as geopolitical risk reasserts itself, reversing last week's demand-driven softness. At the same time, freight markets continue to strengthen, with the Baltic Dry Index reaching multi-month highs and Capesize earnings climbing on sustained Brazil to China iron ore flows. Strong vessel earnings remain the key factor discouraging recycling activity. Currency movements across the sub-continent are reinforcing existing pricing dynamics rather than driving change. The Indian Rupee has weakened, the Pakistani Rupee remains stable, Bangladesh holds within range, and the Turkish Lira has reached fresh lows. Despite these shifts, the core issue remains unchanged: a lack of available tonnage. Bangladesh continues to lead the market with strong pricing, stable currency, and accelerated Letter of Credit approvals. However, with only five weeks remaining before the monsoon season, time pressure is intensifying. Compliance scrutiny remains elevated, with due diligence now embedded across transactions. India retains its structural advantage with Hong Kong Convention compliant yards, but ongoing currency weakness and energy exposure linked to Hormuz disruptions continue to limit competitiveness. Pakistan is emerging as the strongest performer, with firm pricing, stable fundamentals, and a reinforced proximity advantage to Gulf tonnage. Turkey remains uncompetitive for mainstream recycling and is limited to EU regulated tonnage. No major recycling transactions were reported this week, highlighting continued supply tightness across all destinations. As the monsoon window narrows, the market narrative is shifting. The expected release of tonnage is no longer delayed but increasingly deferred, raising the likelihood of a growing backlog into Q2. This episode provides a clear, data-driven view of ship recycling trends, scrap market pricing, freight dynamics, and global maritime risk factors shaping supply decisions. Key Market Developments This Week Indefinite ceasefire extension with escalation in the Strait of Hormuz Brent crude rebounds toward mid-90 dollar levels on geopolitical risk Baltic Dry Index rises to multi-month highs with strong Capesize earnings Vessel earnings remain elevated, discouraging recycling activity Currency movements stable but reinforcing existing pricing structure Bangladesh leads with improving LC flows and strong pricing India remains constrained by currency weakness and energy exposure Pakistan strengthens with firm pricing and Gulf proximity advantage Turkey remains limited to EU compliant recycling segment No major recycling sales reported, confirming supply shortage Q1 tonnage overhang increasingly shifting into a Q2 backlog
In this episode of GMS Podcasts, Jamie Dalzell, Head of GMS' Singapore office, speaks with Dr. Anand Hiremath, CEO of the Sustainable Ship and Offshore Recycling Program, about the European Commission's revised draft guidance on the inclusion of third-country ship recycling facilities under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EU SRR). Although presented as clarification, the revised draft is widely seen across the maritime industry as a more consequential development. The discussion explores how the proposed guidance may raise the practical threshold for non-EU recycling yards seeking inclusion on the EU List, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, environmental monitoring, downstream waste management, verification systems and inspection expectations. The conversation also looks closely at the implications for Alang, where many yards have made substantial progress through investments in safety systems, environmental controls and compliance with the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships. Jamie and Anand examine whether the revised framework builds on that progress or risks creating a compliance threshold that is difficult to achieve in practice. This episode covers the wider commercial and regulatory consequences for shipowners, recycling facilities and the global recycling market, including the risk that overly restrictive entry requirements may reduce participation rather than expand responsible oversight. Topics discussed in this episode: The real shift behind the EU's revised draft guidance Why “clarification” may mean a higher compliance threshold in practice Operational implications for third-country ship recycling facilities Expanded interpretations of infrastructure and environmental monitoring requirements Downstream waste management and the challenge of demonstrating equivalence What the revised approach could mean for Alang ship recycling yards Commercial realities for shipowners at end of life Why participation is essential to raising global recycling standards The case for phased inclusion and structured compliance pathways What is ultimately at stake for the future of responsible ship recycling This is an important conversation for shipowners, cash buyers, recyclers, regulators, P&I stakeholders, compliance specialists and maritime professionals following the evolving regulatory landscape in ship recycling. Subscribe to GMS Podcasts for expert discussion on ship recycling, maritime regulation, responsible recycling standards and market developments shaping the industry.
Week 16 of 2026 highlights a shift in momentum across global ship recycling markets, as geopolitical tensions remain unresolved and continue to shape market behavior. In this episode, Grace and Ryan break down the latest developments across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey, with a focus on how macro factors are influencing recycling activity. The expected release of vessel supply has once again been delayed, even as oil prices soften. The macro environment this week reflects elevated risk rather than stability. While Brent crude has eased to the mid-90 dollar range due to weaker demand expectations, the Strait of Hormuz remains constrained and geopolitical tensions persist. At the same time, freight markets have strengthened significantly, with the Baltic Dry Index reaching its highest levels since December. Strong vessel earnings continue to discourage owners from recycling older ships. Currency markets remain relatively stable across the subcontinent, and steel prices are holding recent gains. However, these factors are not driving the market. The key constraint remains the lack of available tonnage. Bangladesh continues to lead the market with strong pricing, stable currency, and improving Letter of Credit flows. However, the pre-monsoon window is narrowing rapidly, putting pressure on recyclers to secure vessels in the coming weeks. India remains structurally strong with its HKC compliant infrastructure, but ongoing currency weakness and energy supply disruptions are limiting competitiveness. Pakistan is emerging as a strong and stable second option, supported by firm steel prices and a favorable position due to ongoing regional dynamics. Turkey remains uncompetitive for mainstream tonnage and continues to operate within its EU regulated niche. No major recycling transactions were reported this week, reinforcing the ongoing supply shortage across all key destinations. As Q2 progresses, the market is approaching a critical point. The key question remains whether vessel supply will return before the monsoon season or continue to be delayed by strong freight markets and geopolitical uncertainty. Key Market Developments This Week Geopolitical risk remains elevated with ceasefire discussions but no full resolution Brent crude softens to mid-90-dollar levels due to demand concerns Baltic Dry Index rises above 2500, supporting strong vessel earnings Owners continue trading vessels instead of recycling due to firm freight markets Bangladesh leads pricing with strong steel levels and improving LC flows India faces currency pressure and energy-related constraints Pakistan strengthens with stable currency and rising steel prices Turkey remains limited to the EU-compliant recycling segment No major recycling sales reported, highlighting ongoing supply shortage Market direction depends on timing of vessel supply ahead of monsoon season
Week 15 of 2026 marks a potential turning point for the global ship recycling markets, as the long-standing war-driven oil premium begins to ease for the first time in months. In this episode, Grace and Ryan break down the latest developments across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey, highlighting how falling oil prices, firm freight markets, and stable currencies are shaping recycling sentiment. The macro environment shifted this week as Brent crude dropped sharply from above USD 109 to near USD 101 per barrel following geopolitical developments involving Iran. However, despite this correction, the Baltic Dry Index climbed above 2,100, indicating that freight earnings remain strong and continue to delay recycling decisions. Currency markets remained relatively stable, with the U.S. Dollar softening slightly, offering marginal support to sub-continent buyers, while the Indian Rupee weakened modestly after last week's rebound. Regionally, Bangladesh continues to lead the market, supported by a sharp increase in steel plate prices to BDT 71,000 and improving Letter of Credit approvals. India remains structurally strong with over 110 HKC-compliant yards but is still constrained by limited supply and ongoing energy challenges. Pakistan stands out for its stability, with firm steel prices and a steady currency supporting consistent bidding. Turkey, despite a slight currency recovery, remains uncompetitive for mainstream tonnage and focused on niche EU-regulated recycling. A notable transaction this week included an LNG vessel reported at USD 513 per LDT, signaling that deals are still occurring, albeit selectively. The key theme remains unchanged: recyclers are ready to buy, but vessel supply continues to lag. As oil prices soften and geopolitical uncertainty evolves, the market may be approaching an inflection point, but the timing of any meaningful supply release remains uncertain. As Q2 progresses and the monsoon window narrows, the industry is watching closely: will lower oil prices trigger increased recycling activity, or will firm freight markets continue to delay the flow of tonnage? Key Market Developments this week War premium in oil begins to ease as Brent drops from USD 109 to ~USD 101 Baltic Dry Index rises above 2,100, keeping freight earnings strong Vessel supply remains constrained despite improving recycling conditions Bangladesh leads with strong steel prices and improving LC approvals India faces currency pressure and energy constraints despite strong infrastructure Pakistan remains stable with firm steel prices and competitive positioning Turkey shows slight recovery but remains uncompetitive for mainstream recycling LNG vessel sale reported at USD 513/LDT highlights selective deal activity Market approaching potential inflection point, but supply response still pending
Week 14 of 2026 sees the global ship recycling markets enter Q2 under continued pressure, with many of the same challenges from Q1 still firmly in place. In this episode, Ingrid and Henning walk through the latest developments across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey, where recyclers remain active but are still facing a shortage of workable end-of-life vessel supply. The broader macro environment continues to play a key role. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East are keeping oil prices elevated above USD 100 per barrel, supporting freight earnings and delaying demolition decisions. As a result, older vessels are staying in service longer, limiting the flow of tonnage into recycling yards. Currency movements added another layer this week. The Indian Rupee rebounded following central bank intervention, offering some support to local buyers, while the Turkish Lira weakened further, keeping Turkey uncompetitive for mainstream tonnage. At the same time, mixed steel price trends across the sub-continent continue to make pricing decisions more difficult. Regionally, Bangladesh remains the most active market, with steady post-Eid momentum, improving LC approvals, and firm pricing levels. India continues to benefit from strong HKC compliance infrastructure but remains constrained by limited supply and operational challenges. Pakistan shows improving stability, supported by firm steel prices and growing compliance capacity, while Turkey remains focused on niche EU-regulated recycling segments. The key theme this week remains unchanged: recyclers are ready to buy, but vessels are not arriving in sufficient numbers. As Q2 begins, the market continues to watch closely - will supply improve ahead of the monsoon season, or will strong freight markets continue to delay recycling activity? Key Market Developments This Week Q2 opens with continued pressure from oil, freight, and geopolitical factors Elevated freight earnings continue to delay recycling decisions Ongoing shortage of end-of-life vessel supply across all major markets Bangladesh remains the most competitive and active destination Indian Rupee rebound offers support, but operational challenges persist Pakistan strengthens position with stable steel prices and improving sentiment Turkey remains uncompetitive for mainstream tonnage due to currency weakness Compliance and due diligence remain key following unresolved sanctioned vessels Overall market activity remains subdued despite improving buyer appetite
Week 13 of 2026 sees global ship recycling markets reopen after the Eid holidays, but the expected rebound in activity has yet to arrive. Across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey, recyclers returned to the market facing the same central challenge: a shortage of workable end-of-life vessel supply. The broader macro environment remains the main driver. Ongoing conflict in the Middle East is still supporting oil prices above USD 100 per barrel and keeping freight earnings elevated, which continues to delay demolition decisions as owners keep older vessels trading longer. Mixed U.S. Dollar performance and uneven steel plate movements across the subcontinent added further uncertainty to bidding levels this week. In this episode, Grace and Ryan discuss how post-Eid sentiment has improved in parts of the market, especially in Bangladesh, where recyclers appear more active and more willing to chase fresh tonnage. However, financing bottlenecks, unresolved sanctions-related concerns, and still-flat steel fundamentals continue to limit momentum. India saw a firmer steel tone and remains the clear leader in Hong Kong Convention compliant recycling capacity, with more than 110 compliant yards in Alang. Pakistan continued to show improving engagement, supported by HKC-certified yards and geographic proximity to Gulf tonnage, while Turkey remained structurally disadvantaged on price despite retaining a specialist niche for EU-regulated vessels. The key theme this week is straightforward: market appetite is returning faster than vessel supply. That imbalance is keeping transaction volumes low even as buyer sentiment improves. As Q2 begins, the market focus shifts to one critical question: will a pre-monsoon wave of recycling candidates emerge, or will high freight returns continue to keep demolition tonnage out of reach? Key Market Developments This Week Post-Eid reopening failed to deliver a meaningful pickup in ship recycling volumes Middle East conflict continues to support high oil prices and firm freight earnings Elevated freight returns are still delaying vessel scrapping decisions Bangladesh emerged from Eid with stronger buying appetite and improving sentiment Two OFAC-sanctioned VLCCs remain unresolved off Chattogram, reinforcing due diligence concerns Bangladesh recycling indications held at about USD 450 / 470 / 480 per LDT for dry bulk, tankers, and containers India remained at USD 425 / 445 / 455 per LDT and continues to lead on HKC compliance with 110+ compliant yards Pakistan held at USD 440 / 460 / 470 per LDT and showed continued engagement despite steel pressure Turkey stayed at USD 270 / 280 / 290 per LDT and remains uncompetitive for mainstream commercial tonnage Port activity remained thin, with no new vessels reported at Chattogram or Gadani this week
Week 12 of 2026 sees global ship recycling markets enter a seasonal pause as Eid holidays slow activity across key recycling destinations including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey. However, underlying market pressures continue to build. Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East remain the dominant macro driver, with oil prices briefly approaching 120 USD per barrel before stabilizing above 100 USD. Elevated energy prices are supporting freight markets, with the Baltic Dry Index holding above 2,000 levels. This is delaying the flow of end-of-life vessels into recycling yards. In this episode, Ingrid and Henning discuss how rising oil prices, firm freight earnings, and a strengthening U.S. Dollar are tightening vessel supply while also pressuring recycling market fundamentals. Despite improved pricing levels across the subcontinent, a lack of available tonnage continues to limit transactions. Bangladesh remains the price leader but recorded no meaningful deals due to the Eid slowdown and ongoing financing constraints. India faces pressure from rising energy costs and currency weakness but maintains a competitive advantage through its Hong Kong Convention compliant recycling yards. Pakistan shows improving sentiment with stable currency levels, strong steel prices, and expanding HKC certified capacity. Turkey remains subdued amid currency depreciation and regulatory challenges. The key theme this week is clear. Strong pricing but no supply. As markets prepare to reopen after Eid, attention turns to whether a short-term increase in recycling activity can materialize ahead of the monsoon season, or if elevated freight earnings will continue to delay vessel recycling decisions. Key Market Developments This Week • Eid holidays pause ship recycling activity across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey • Middle East conflict pushes oil prices above 100 USD, briefly nearing 120 USD per barrel • Baltic Dry Index remains firm above 2,000, supporting vessel earnings • Higher freight rates delay recycling supply as older vessels remain in operation • U.S. Dollar strengthens against regional currencies, pressuring recycling margins • Bangladesh leads pricing but records no transactions during the holiday week • Indian Rupee weakens while steel prices remain volatile amid supply concerns • Pakistan shows improving sentiment with stable currency and strong steel prices • Expansion of HKC compliant yards in India and Pakistan supports future green recycling demand • Turkey market remains quiet amid Lira depreciation and ongoing regulatory challenges
Week 11 of 2026 brings heightened geopolitical tension and its effects on global shipping and ship recycling markets. Escalating conflict in the Middle East is beginning to influence energy markets, trade routes, and demolition pricing across the Indian Subcontinent. Following military strikes near Iran's Kharg Island, one of the country's primary crude export terminals, oil prices moved sharply higher and approached the USD 100 per barrel level. The development has raised concerns across the shipping industry as higher bunker costs, supply risks, and regional security issues begin to affect market sentiment. In this episode, Ingrid and Henning discuss how geopolitical developments, oil price movements, steel prices, and currency fluctuations are shaping ship recycling activity across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Türkiye. Bangladesh recorded the most activity this week and secured several notable vessels including three LNG carriers and additional bulk carriers. Buyers in India, Pakistan, and Turkey remained more cautious as steel price volatility and currency pressures continue to influence recycling margins. The recycling market remains sensitive to global economic conditions, particularly oil prices, freight market trends, and regional steel demand. Key Market Developments This Week • Middle East tensions affecting energy markets and global shipping routes • Military strikes near Iran's Kharg Island pushing oil prices close to USD 100 per barrel • Rising geopolitical risk influencing shipping costs and freight market sentiment • Bangladesh securing multiple vessels including LNG carriers and bulkers • Rare LNG carrier recycling deals completed during the week • Currency weakness and steel price fluctuations affecting recycling margins in South Asia • India, Pakistan, and Turkey markets showing limited buying activity • Recycling markets monitoring geopolitical developments and energy market trends Bangladesh led pricing levels across most vessel categories during the week. Buyers in other markets remained cautious while monitoring steel demand and currency movements. The overall tone across recycling markets remains cautious but stable. Activity continues to depend on steel prices, currency stability, and the supply of available vessels. This episode reviews demolition pricing trends, regional recycling fundamentals, and the broader economic forces influencing ship recycling markets in 2026. For shipowners, brokers, cash buyers, recycling yards, and maritime investors, this weekly update provides practical insight into the global ship recycling market.
Week 10 of 2026 brings major geopolitical disruption to the global shipping and ship recycling markets as escalating conflict in the Middle East sends shockwaves through energy markets, trade routes, and demolition pricing across the Indian Subcontinent. Following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and rising regional instability, oil prices surged sharply above USD 110 per barrel, driving higher operating costs across global shipping. War risk premiums, vessel rerouting, and energy price volatility are beginning to influence ship recycling sentiment across key demolition destinations, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey. In this episode, Ingrid and Henning analyze how geopolitical tensions, fuel market volatility, steel price movements, and currency fluctuations are shaping buyer behavior and demolition pricing across the global ship recycling industry. Despite increasing uncertainty, the recycling markets remain disciplined, with buyers maintaining cautious bidding strategies and limited fresh tonnage entering the market. Key Market Developments This Week • Escalating Middle East conflict impacting global shipping routes and energy markets • Strait of Hormuz disruption driving sharp oil price increases • Rising vessel operating costs and insurance premiums • Bangladesh maintaining top demolition pricing position • India steel plate prices jumping nearly USD 28 per ton amid supply concerns • Pakistan maintaining competitive pricing with stable steel fundamentals • Turkey facing regulatory developments following EU yard certification changes • No reported demolition sales this week as buyers remain cautious Bangladesh continues to lead pricing levels across most vessel categories, while India shows improving steel fundamentals and Pakistan remains competitively positioned for regional tonnage. Turkey continues to trail pricing levels amid softer European scrap demand. The broader tone of the market remains cautious but stable. While geopolitical instability is creating short-term disruption across global shipping markets, longer-term implications may eventually influence vessel supply into the recycling sector. This episode provides strategic insights into demolition pricing trends, steel market movements, subcontinent recycling fundamentals, and the macroeconomic forces influencing ship recycling markets in 2026. For shipowners, brokers, cash buyers, recycling yards, and maritime investors, this weekly update provides essential intelligence on the evolving global ship recycling landscape.
Week 09 of 2026 shows a ship recycling market operating cautiously as steel price weakness, currency volatility, and macro uncertainty continue to influence buyer behavior across the Indian Subcontinent. Even without excessive vessel supply, demolition prices have struggled to move higher. Recyclers in Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan are maintaining strict pricing discipline as local steel fundamentals remain soft and exchange rate movements increase transactional risk. In this episode, Grace and Ryan examine the core drivers shaping the global ship recycling market, including geopolitical developments, oil price movement, steel plate trends, freight sentiment, and subcontinent currency performance. Key market developments this week: Continued macro uncertainty affecting commodity and currency stability Steel price softness limiting upward movement in demolition offers Bangladesh maintaining the top position in demo pricing levels India remaining competitive but measured in its bidding approach Pakistan constrained by financial and structural economic pressures Turkey offering conservative levels aligned with European scrap markets Freight earnings preventing an immediate surge of recycling candidates Bangladesh continues to lead pricing across most vessel categories. India follows closely but remains selective, particularly on HKC compliant tonnage. Pakistan's pricing reflects ongoing banking and liquidity constraints. Turkey remains at the lower end of the pricing spectrum due to softer imported scrap fundamentals. The broader tone of the market is cautious rather than reactive. Buyers are active, but they are protecting margins. Steel direction remains the primary anchor for pricing decisions, and until stronger support develops, recyclers are unlikely to stretch significantly. This episode provides practical insight into demolition pricing trends, subcontinent steel movements, and market positioning for shipowners, cash buyers, brokers, recycling yards, maritime investors, and shipping professionals navigating 2026 conditions. For those involved in vessel recycling and ship demolition markets, this weekly update offers clear perspective on pricing leadership and the factors to monitor in the weeks ahead.
Week 8 of 2026 delivered a volatile yet constructive shift in the global ship recycling market. Freight rates, oil prices, steel fundamentals, and currencies all moved sharply before partially retracing by the end of the week. Despite Chinese New Year holidays, recycling supply surprised the market with approximately 151,000 LDT across 16 vessels delivered or arrived across India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. In this episode, Ingrid and Henning examine the key drivers shaping the demolition market: The Baltic Dry Index rebounding 1.2 percent, led by Capesize and Panamax strength Oil prices climbing above USD 66 per barrel before easing toward USD 65.9 Bangladesh reclaiming the number one position in the subcontinent rankings with improving sentiment and pricing levels pushing into the mid USD 400s per LDT A USD 16 per ton increase in Bangladeshi steel plate prices alongside a firmer Taka Pakistan maintaining industry leading steel levels near USD 594 per ton following the halt in Iranian steel imports India's steel prices slipping below USD 400 per ton while inflation trends accelerate Continued alignment on Hong Kong Convention compliance with IRRC documentation requirements across the region The expected operational slowdown from Ramadan across key recycling destinations This episode provides in-depth analysis of demolition pricing direction, port activity in Alang, Chattogram, and Gadani, currency performance, inflation trends, and the macroeconomic forces influencing vessel recycling markets in 2026. The discussion is tailored for shipowners, cash buyers, brokers, recycling yards, maritime investors, and shipping professionals seeking actionable insight into global ship demolition pricing and subcontinent market dynamics.
The global ship recycling market saw another shift in Week 7 of 2026 as key fundamentals moved in different directions across the sub-continent. The Baltic Dry Index declined by 0.6 percent, mainly due to weaker Capesize and Panamax performance, while Supramax rates improved. Oil prices held near USD 62.8 per barrel as markets continued to monitor U.S. and Iran tensions. In this week's episode, Ingrid and Henning discuss how the U.S. Dollar strengthened against most recycling nation currencies, with India being the exception as the Rupee improved to around INR 90.6. Steel plate prices reversed course in India, falling nearly USD 10 per ton, while Pakistan maintained the strongest fundamentals in the region with plate prices holding near USD 594 per ton. Bangladesh reached a political milestone as the BNP secured a more than two-thirds majority in the general elections. The result is expected to support long-delayed infrastructure projects and could improve domestic steel demand in the months ahead. The country also adopted the International Ready for Recycling Certificate framework, aligning with regional compliance requirements under the Hong Kong Convention. Steel plate prices in Bangladesh remained flat near USD 494 per ton, while the Taka weakened slightly. Pakistan continued to lead pricing tables, supported by firm steel levels, stable currency performance near PKR 279.6, and rising anchorage activity totaling nearly 30,000 LDT across multiple bulk carriers. India's anchorage activity also remained active with more than 47,000 LDT present, despite softer steel prices. Turkey remained quiet, with limited activity in Aliaga and the Lira weakening toward TRY 44. This episode covers demolition pricing direction, steel and currency movements, port activity in Alang, Chattogram, and Gadani, and the ongoing shortage of recycling candidates. The discussion is intended for shipowners, cash buyers, recyclers, brokers, and maritime professionals following developments in the global demolition market
The global ship recycling market saw another sharp shift this week as the U.S. dollar weakened across nearly all recycling destinations, providing fresh support to buyer sentiment across the sub-continent. Steel fundamentals also strengthened significantly, with India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh reporting notable weekly jumps in local steel plate prices. In this week's ship recycling market podcast, Ingrid and Henning break down the latest movements in the Baltic Dry Index, oil prices falling below sixty-two U.S. dollars per barrel, and how improving domestic fundamentals are reshaping pricing expectations across the Indian sub-continent. Pakistan continues to lead the market, supported by firm steel levels, improving currency performance, and renewed demand for dry bulk candidates. Bangladesh re-enters the spotlight as Chattogram activity increases, though uncertainty remains high with national elections approaching mid-February. India shows stronger footing as steel prices rebound and the Indian Rupee strengthens, while Turkey remains subdued, with Aliaga activity limited and the Turkish Lira continuing its gradual decline. This episode also highlights the ongoing shortage of recycling candidates, increased interest in older handy bulkers and LNG units, and the evolving balance of supply and demand shaping demolition pricing into early 2026. Designed for shipowners, cash buyers, recyclers, brokers, financiers, and maritime professionals tracking global demolition markets, this weekly discussion covers pricing direction, market sentiment, HKC compliance developments, and the key risks and opportunities currently shaping the ship recycling landscape.
The global ship recycling market enters February under renewed pressure as currency volatility, rising oil prices, and shifting fundamentals reshape buyer behavior across key recycling destinations. In this week's market update, Ingrid and Henning discuss how Pakistan strengthens its position following another HKC-approved yard and firm steel fundamentals, while Bangladesh returns to the bidding tables but remains constrained by weak steel prices, currency pressure, and upcoming elections. India stays active at the anchorage despite record Rupee weakness and soft plate prices, keeping pricing selective, while Turkey sees steady demand supported by RoRo arrivals even as the Lira continues to depreciate. The episode also covers movements in the Baltic Dry Index, oil prices crossing USD 65 per barrel, regional currency trends, steel plate pricing across the sub-continent, HKC compliance developments, and evolving tonnage supply expectations as Q1 2026 unfolds. Designed for shipowners, cash buyers, recyclers, brokers, financiers, and maritime professionals monitoring global demolition markets, this weekly conversation highlights pricing direction, compliance momentum, and the key risks and opportunities shaping the ship recycling landscape.
The global ship recycling market continues to shift as volatility, currency pressure, and limited vessel supply reshape buyer behavior across key destinations. In this episode, Ingrid and Henning discuss the latest developments across the Indian sub-continent and Turkey, as market rankings reshuffle and sentiment moves rapidly week to week. Bangladesh falls to the bottom of the regional pricing table amid weak bidding activity and upcoming elections, while Pakistan moves to the top following improved demand, reduced Iranian steel imports, and the addition of another HKC-compliant yard with Salams International receiving its Statement of Compliance from ClassNK. India remains active for specialist tonnage such as LNG carriers and non-ferrous-rich vessels, though continued Indian Rupee weakness and steel price sensitivity keep recyclers cautious. Turkey experiences renewed activity with increased RoRo arrivals, even as ongoing Lira depreciation limits longer-term upside. This weekly market conversation covers recycling pricing levels, currency movements, steel fundamentals, tonnage flows, and what shipowners, brokers, and maritime stakeholders should be watching as 2026 unfolds. Designed for shipowners, cash buyers, recyclers, brokers, financiers, and maritime professionals monitoring global demolition markets and vessel recycling trends.
The global ship recycling market remains cautious as currency pressure, steel price volatility, and limited vessel supply continue to shape buyer behavior across key destinations. In this episode, Ingrid and Henning break down the latest developments across the Indian sub-continent and Turkey, as recyclers navigate weakening local currencies, uneven steel plate prices, and selective demand for tonnage. The discussion explores why recycling prices continue to hover around the critical USD 400 per LDT level, how Bangladesh has regained its position as the most competitive destination for large LDT vessels, why India's early-year rebound quickly reversed, and why Pakistan remains eager for tonnage but constrained by limited deliveries and yard availability. The episode also looks at renewed activity in Turkey following recent RoRo arrivals, the impact of a strong U.S. Dollar on recycling sentiment, and what shipowners should be watching as global uncertainty continues into early 2026. This market update is designed for shipowners, brokers, recyclers, financiers, and maritime professionals tracking global demolition pricing, tonnage flows, and regional recycling trends.
Offshore units are not conventional ships, and recycling them safely requires a different level of planning, structural scrutiny, and environmental control. In this episode of Beyond the Last Voyage, Jamie Dalzell, Head of GMS Singapore, is joined again by Capt. Yogesh Rehani, Head of Operations at GMS, to discuss how GMS manages the last voyage of FPSOs, FSOs, semi submersibles, and jack up rigs. Capt. Yogesh explains why these assets are more complex to prepare for recycling, including production systems, piping, residues, and the structural risks that come with age, steel wastage, and exposed topside equipment. The conversation covers towage readiness, flare mast protection, stability concerns, and the importance of emergency measures during ocean passages. The episode also revisits landmark operations that helped reshape industry confidence, including the long distance tow of a semi submersible from Brazil and the successful delivery and beaching of a jack up rig in Chittagong, supported by rigorous inspection, daily monitoring, and alignment with marine warranty surveyor requirements. Safety and environmental responsibility remain central throughout. Capt. Yogesh describes how GMS follows MARPOL and IMO expectations for residue control and documentation, and why cutting corners is never an option when lives, reputation, and environmental integrity are at stake.
Week 2 of 2026 brings heightened volatility to the global ship recycling market as geopolitical tensions, rising oil prices and unstable currencies reshape buyer sentiment across the sub-continent. In this episode, Henning and Ingrid explain why USD 400 per LDT has become the key pricing level for shipowners, how Bangladesh has surged back to the top of the market, why India's New Year rebound quickly reversed, and why Pakistan remains financially strong but constrained by HKC yard capacity. Turkey continues to struggle under a weakening lira and regulatory pressure, keeping Aliaga on the sidelines. The episode also looks at how steel prices are shifting across India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, how Chinese New Year could affect vessel availability, and what owners with ageing ships should be watching as 2026 begins. This episode covers: Ship recycling prices for bulkers, tankers and containers Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Turkey market trends Steel plate price volatility Currency movements and buyer sentiment HKC yard capacity and certification limits Port activity and tonnage flows This podcast is essential listening for shipowners, brokers, capital providers, recyclers, and maritime professionals tracking global scrap ship markets.
When a vessel is sold on an As Is Where Is basis, every operational, safety, and environmental risk transfers to the buyer. This first episode of Beyond the Last Voyage explains what that really means inside the global ship recycling industry. Hosted by Jamie Dalzell, Head of GMS Singapore, this episode features Capt. Yogesh Rehani, Head of Operations at GMS, who has spent more than 25 years managing last voyage projects involving damaged, abandoned, and non-operational ships. Listeners are taken inside the real world of ship recycling takeovers. From boarding vessels in blackout conditions to restoring flooded engine rooms and assessing fire and collision damage, Capt. Yogesh explains how GMS evaluates risk, stabilizes vessels, and moves them safely to recycling yards in the subcontinent. The conversation includes real case studies, including a cruise ship with a flooded engine room that was repaired and sailed under its own power, a tanker that sat idle off West Africa for more than 14 years before being reactivated, and multiple fire damaged and collision damaged ships delivered through carefully engineered towage and voyage planning. This episode shows how ship recycling is not just about steel. It is about marine engineering, risk management, crew safety, environmental protection, and honoring contractual commitments. GMS operates as a marine operator first and a cash buyer second, which is why shipowners, underwriters, and brokers rely on GMS when the stakes are highest. Beyond the Last Voyage reveals the discipline, preparation, and technical judgment required to complete the final journey of a vessel safely and responsibly. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN What As Is Where Is means in ship recycling contracts How dead ships and idle vessels are taken over and made seaworthy How flooded, fire damaged, and collision damaged vessels are assessed How naval architects, class, and marine warranty surveyors guide last voyages Why operational reliability matters more than price in recycling deals
Week 1 of 2026 starts with heavy geopolitical noise and mixed macro signals, and ship recycling markets respond with a clear reshuffle across the main destinations. In this episode, Ingrid and Henning cover what is moving sentiment, how currencies and steel are shaping bids, and where recycling candidates are most likely to end up in the near term. This week in the markets: India (Alang) strengthened sharply and moved back to the top of the pricing range, even with the rupee softer near 90.28 to the dollar. Bangladesh (Chattogram) slipped further, with levels down around 50 dollars per LDT from late Q4 highs and the taka near 122.30 to the dollar as uncertainty builds ahead of elections. Pakistan (Gadani) stayed close behind but most offers remained below 400 dollars per LDT, with the rupee near 280.62 to the dollar and limited HKC ready capacity still a key constraint. Turkey (Aliaga) stayed quiet with no reported sales and the lira near 43.03 to the dollar. Port position: Chattogram reported arrivals totaling about 39,560 LDT this week, while Alang and Gadani reported no new vessels. Indicative recycling levels for Week 1 2026 (USD per LDT): India Bulker 410 Tanker 430 Container 440 Pakistan Bulker 390 Tanker 410 Container 420 Bangladesh Bulker 380 Tanker 400 Container 410 Turkey Bulker 270 Tanker 280 Container 290 For the full written weekly with tables and port position details, download it from the GMS App or subscribe to receive it by email each week.
As 2025 comes to a close, GMS Weekly - Week 52 delivers a comprehensive year-end overview of the global ship recycling and demolition market, highlighting key trends, pricing movements, and compliance developments across the major recycling destinations. In this episode, Henning and Ingrid reflect on a turbulent year shaped by scarce vessel supply, declining steel plate prices, volatile currencies, and continued uncertainty across global freight markets. Despite softer pricing compared to early-2024 highs, meaningful progress on Hong Kong Convention (HKC) compliance across the Indian sub-continent provides a constructive outlook heading into 2026. Market highlights this week include: A quiet holiday market with no reported recycling sales, reflecting continued supply tightness. Bangladesh closing the year with filled yards, flat steel trading, improved port efficiency, and cautious optimism ahead of 2026. India ending 2025 under pressure from falling steel prices and a weaker rupee, despite a resilient broader economic backdrop. Pakistan reaching a major milestone with its first HKC-approved ship recycling yard, positioning Gadani for increased competitiveness in 2026. Turkey remaining subdued as currency weakness and limited tonnage keep Aliaga quiet. Freight markets easing further, potentially delaying recycling candidates into early 2026 as owners await surveys and dry-dock cycles. Indicative recycling levels for Week 52 (USD/LDT): Bangladesh: Bulker 410 | Tanker 430 | Container 440 Pakistan: Bulker 400 | Tanker 420 | Container 430 India: Bulker 380 | Tanker 400 | Container 410 Turkey: Bulker 270 | Tanker 280 | Container 290 As the industry looks ahead, HKC-ready capacity, regulatory compliance, and timing of vessel supply are expected to define recycling market dynamics in the year ahead. Tune in for a concise, data-driven wrap-up of 2025 and what it means for ship recycling markets in 2026.
In this episode, Jamie Dalzell, Head of GMS Singapore, speaks with Dr. Anand Hiremath, GMS Chief Sustainability Officer and lead of SSORP, the Sustainable Ship and Offshore Recycling Program. In ship recycling, many incidents happen when routine takes over and basic checks are skipped to keep work moving. This conversation focuses on the small actions that prevent harm on the ground: the pause before lighting the torch, a gas check repeated when conditions change, a supervisor choosing not to overlap high risk jobs, and a near miss report that results in a real fix. What SSORP has delivered this year (so far) 781 safety awareness training sessions 12,036 yard workers reached 70 distinct topics delivered across India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan Training provided free for workers Topics discussed in this episode Permit to Work (PTW): planning, authorization, checks, and clear responsibility before high risk work starts Hot work and gas cutting discipline: leak checks, flashback risks, ventilation, fire watch, safe cylinder handling, and stop work authority Confined space awareness: atmospheric hazards, entry controls, communication, and changing conditions Lifting and material handling: rigging basics, exclusion zones, signals, and early warning signs before a load shifts Heat stress and fatigue: hydration routines, shaded rest, symptom recognition, and simple prevention steps Near miss reporting: reporting early, pausing the task, inspecting gear, fixing issues, and sharing learning in toolbox talks Environmental awareness and waste handling: segregation, storage discipline, spill prevention, and daily yard practices Mock drills and emergency readiness: alarms, isolation, muster points, first actions, and clear response roles Key takeaways for different roles For workers: professionalism is in the pause. Ask for checks, report near misses, stop when conditions change For supervisors and mukadams: make work predictable. Plan, brief, coordinate overlaps, and make permits meaningful For owners and management: back the system. Maintain equipment, support reporting without blame, and reinforce discipline consistently This episode is a practical look at training that supports safer work shift by shift across ship recycling yards.
In this Week 51 episode, Ingrid and Henning break down the latest ship recycling and demolition market signals across Bangladesh, India (Alang), Pakistan (Gadani), and Turkey (Aliaga). This week delivers a sharp reminder of December volatility: freight markets continue to ease, the U.S. Dollar remains unstable, oil holds at relatively low levels, and local steel plate prices shift across the sub-continent. With the Hong Kong Convention (HKC) now in force, recyclers continue adapting to higher compliance expectations, while owners watch pricing and delivery timing closely heading into year-end. Market overview highlights: Lower supply remains the defining theme, even as fixtures and arrivals begin to surface across sub-continent beaches. Bangladesh sees another price reset as steel plate prices drop quickly and yard capacity remains a key factor. India remains under pressure overall, but the Rupee firms and local plate prices rebound, adding short-term optimism. Pakistan strengthens its position with firmer domestic steel and ongoing HKC momentum, though delivery delays remain a concern. Turkey stays largely sidelined as restrictions and currency weakness keep Aliaga quiet. Indicative recycling levels this week (USD per LDT): Bangladesh: Bulker 410 | Tanker 430 | Container 440 Pakistan: Bulker 400 | Tanker 420 | Container 430 India: Bulker 380 | Tanker 400 | Container 410 Turkey: Bulker 270 | Tanker 280 | Container 290 Also in this episode: GMS is proud to share that our Founder and CEO, Dr. Anil Sharma, has been recognized in the Lloyd's List Top 100 Most Influential People in Shipping for the 16th consecutive year. Under his leadership, GMS has completed more than 5,000 transactions and handles about one-third of global tonnage delivered for recycling each year. If you want the full market context, pricing direction, and port position snapshots, follow GMS for weekly ship recycling intelligence. Season's greetings to you and your families, and thank you for listening.
In Part 3 of Ship Recycling Insurance Explained, host Jamie Dalzell and Paulina, Head of Insurance at GMS, look ahead at the technologies, regulations, and ESG expectations that will shape the next phase of maritime risk management. As ship recycling becomes more regulated and data driven, owners, insurers, and recycling partners rely on stronger verification systems and real-time information to manage final voyage exposure. Paulina explains how digital tools, vessel tracking, AI based routing, and improved certification processes are increasing transparency and reducing risk across the recycling chain. The conversation highlights how insurers are now linking coverage and premium terms to ESG performance, worker safety standards, carbon considerations, and responsible recycling practices. The episode also explores how GMS prepares for regulatory change by strengthening audits, working with reputable insurers, and investing in digital monitoring to maintain high operational standards. Topics include: • How vessel tracking and digital tools support better risk decisions • The role of AI in voyage planning and incident prevention • How digital certification improves transparency and compliance • Growing ESG influence on underwriting, pricing, and coverage availability • Environmental liability trends and new regulatory expectations • How GMS prepares for future maritime and recycling regulations • The importance of proactive and responsible risk management This final episode ties together the themes of the series and shows how the future of ship recycling insurance will be shaped by technology, ESG performance, and evolving international standards.
In this Week 50 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, Grace and Ryan break down the latest ship recycling / demolition market developments across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey. Week 50 delivers “December Downers” as sentiment weakens into year-end: the Baltic Dry Index (BDI) slips nearly 4% (with Capes down 5.6%), and oil retreats over 3% to around $57.61/bbl. A strong U.S. Dollar, softer local steel plate prices, and limited tonnage continue to pressure bids—pushing many sub-continent indications toward $400/LDT and below. Bangladesh remains top-ranked but faces declining fundamentals—local plate prices drop about $9/ton into the high-$490s, and political risk rises with elections confirmed for Feb 12, 2026. India (Alang) stays the weakest as steel levels ease to roughly $377/ton, and the INR hits around 90.50 to the Dollar. Pakistan (Gadani) remains quiet despite ongoing Hong Kong Convention (HKC) progress; inflation sits near 6.1%, plate levels around $575/ton, and the PKR near 280.35. Turkey (Aliaga) is stable but slow, with the TRY near 42.70. Indicative price levels this week (USD/LDT): Bangladesh 410 / 430 / 440 (Bulker / Tanker / Container) Pakistan 400 / 420 / 430 India 380 / 400 / 410 Turkey 270 / 280 / 290 For the full report, rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly via the GMS App or our website. Follow GMS on LinkedIn and social media for daily ship recycling market updates.
In Part 2 of Ship Recycling Insurance Explained, Jamie Dalzell and Paulina, Head of Insurance at GMS, examine how insurance helps manage market volatility, political risk, and compliance pressures in global ship recycling. Many recycling destinations face currency restrictions, regulatory challenges, and shifting geopolitical conditions, and this episode explains how structured insurance programs provide stability and protection throughout the final voyage. Paulina outlines how GMS works with global reinsurers, A rated insurance markets, and experienced local correspondents to secure reliable coverage, even in complex jurisdictions. She also discusses how tailored policy wording addresses sanctions, convertibility and enforceability concerns, and the wider risk environment surrounding ship recycling. The episode highlights the growing influence of ESG standards and how insurance supports verification of safe manning, pollution safeguards, and green recycling requirements. Topics include: • Structuring insurance in markets with currency or political instability • Using strong reinsurance capacity to protect voyage and liability exposure • Managing sanctions, convertibility, and enforceability risk • Insurance as verification of ESG and responsible recycling standards • Coordination between insurance, trading, and operations teams • Monitoring routing, weather, warranties, COFR, SOR, and P and I entries • Emerging risks shaping the next phase of global ship recycling This episode shows how insurance helps GMS navigate uncertainty and maintain safe, compliant, and responsible recycling operations across multiple jurisdictions.
In this Week 49 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, Grace and Ryan review the latest ship recycling market developments across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Turkey. The final weeks of 2025 brought softer steel prices, weaker currencies, and a continued shortage of available tonnage. The Baltic Dry Index slipped about 3 percent, oil steadied near 59 dollars 70 cents a barrel, and local plate levels fell by roughly 5 dollars per ton across the sub-continent. Bangladesh remains at the top of the price rankings despite a quieter market, while India faces another week of limited arrivals and declining fundamentals. Pakistan is building momentum following confirmation of its first Hong Kong Convention-approved yard in Gadani, and Turkey shows modest improvement as local steel prices rise 10 dollars per ton. Ingrid and Henning also discuss year-end sentiment, the impact of currency moves, and expectations for 2026 as recyclers invest in new HKC-compliant capacity. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.
Welcome to Part 1 of the GMS Podcast series Ship Recycling Insurance Explained. In this episode, host Jamie Dalzell speaks with Paulina, Head of Insurance at GMS, about why insurance is a critical part of every ship's final voyage to the recycling yard. Ship recycling carries unique navigational, environmental, and liability risks, and strong insurance protection is essential for safe and compliant operations. Paulina explains how insurance supports owners, crews, third parties, and the environment throughout the final voyage. The discussion covers how Marine Warranty Surveyors, P&I coverage, hull insurance, pollution safeguards, and contractual compliance come together to manage risk from departure to delivery. Topics in this episode include: • Key risks involved in the final voyage • Navigation risk assessments and the role of Marine Warranty Surveyors • Crew and third-party liability protection • Pollution exposure and environmental safeguards • Contractual compliance with international recycling standards • How reputable insurers strengthen responsible recycling at GMS • How ESG expectations are reshaping insurance requirements This episode sets the foundation for the series by explaining why insurance is central to safe, responsible, and transparent ship recycling. It offers clear insight into how GMS works with first-class insurers to protect every stakeholder involved in the process. Follow GMS on LinkedIn and subscribe for Part 2, where we explore how insurance helps manage market volatility, political risk, and global compliance pressures.
In this Week 48 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, hosts Ingrid and Henning review another eventful period in the global ship recycling market as the industry navigates uneven fundamentals and prepares for the final month of the year. Market conditions across South Asia remained under pressure. Steel plate prices declined in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and China. The US dollar weakened in all major recycling destinations except Turkey. Freight markets continued their positive momentum, with the Baltic Dry Index rising by 3.2% to its highest level since December 2023. Oil prices stayed soft and ended the week near 59 dollars per ton, almost 14% lower than a year ago. Supply of recycling candidates remains limited as owners continue trading their vessels on strong freight earnings. Global supply tightness contributed to a mixed pricing environment. Smaller lightweight units are often trading below 400 dollars per lightweight ton, while cleaner and larger vessels can still command higher levels in select locations. Bangladesh stayed at the top of the pricing charts. Indicative levels were about 410 dollars per lightweight ton for bulkers, 430 dollars for tankers and 440 dollars for container vessels. Domestic fundamentals, however, weakened again. Local steel plate prices fell by 11 dollars to about 506 dollars per ton. The Taka improved slightly and closed at 122.08. Political tensions remain in the background ahead of the February 2026 elections. Chattogram recorded five new arrivals this week, including LPG units, a bulker and a chemical tanker, totaling 22,459 lightweight tons. Bangladesh now has 21 approved HKC yards, with one more close to completion. India experienced another quiet week. Most tonnage continues to struggle to reach 400 dollars per lightweight ton, keeping Alang behind Bangladesh and Pakistan for preferred vessels. Steel plate prices slipped to about 390 dollars per ton, and the Rupee ended the week around 89.35. Indicative pricing remained about 380 dollars per lightweight ton for bulkers, 400 dollars for tankers and 410 dollars for container ships. Although India reported GDP growth of 8.2 percent, the recycling market continues to face pressure from higher import costs, weaker domestic sentiment and stronger competition from HKC-compliant yards elsewhere. Pakistan recorded the most important development of the week. Prime Green Recyclers in Gadani received HKC approval from Bureau Veritas, the first yard in Pakistan to qualify. Additional yards are undergoing upgrades and are expected to follow in the next few months. Steel plate prices in Pakistan declined by 7 dollars to about 579 dollars per ton. The Rupee firmed slightly to around 282. Indicative pricing stood at 400 dollars per lightweight ton for bulkers, 420 dollars for tankers and 430 dollars for container units. Gadani did not receive any new vessels this week. Turkey remained stable. Prices held around 260 dollars per lightweight ton for bulkers, 270 dollars for tankers and 280 dollars for container vessels. The Turkish Lira weakened further and moved past 42.50 against the US dollar. Inflation remains elevated, although the economy continues to show growth. Recycling activity in Aliaga stayed limited. Across the subcontinent, the market continues to operate with restricted supply, weaker fundamentals and shifting currency conditions. HKC progress in Bangladesh and Pakistan is improving the competitive landscape and setting the stage for stronger compliance and sustainability in the year ahead. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.
In this 2025 Week 47 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, host Ingrid and co-host Henning review another challenging week in global ship recycling as forums and frictions shape sentiment across South Asia. Oil futures slipped to around USD 57.7 per barrel, freight rates stayed active but below last year's highs, local steel plate prices weakened in key recycling destinations, and currency devaluations in India and Bangladesh continued to erode recyclers' purchasing power. Regulators in the United States and European Union also moved ahead with new sanctions on Russia and Iran, targeting dark fleet activity and raising questions over how hundreds of older vessels will eventually be recycled. Global Market Overview Market volatility persisted through late November. Oil prices are now more than 6% lower on the month and around 16% below the same period in 2024. The Baltic Dry Index improved week on week but remains far under last year's levels, which limits demolition candidates even as older tonnage creeps closer to recycling age. Combined with softer steel prices and unstable foreign exchange markets, this has kept supply tight and negotiations cautious at ship recycling yards. Bangladesh Bangladesh remains the price leader in South Asia, with demo indications around USD 410 per LDT for dry bulk, USD 430 for tankers, and USD 440 for container vessels. Despite the pricing edge, 2025 has been thin on actual volumes. Inflation has hovered between 8% and 9%, and the Bangladeshi Taka weakened again to roughly BDT 122.5 per USD. Local steel plate prices slipped to about USD 525.9 per ton as yards struggle to move stockpiled recycled steel while cheaper imported scrap continues to pressure domestic demand. Political tensions ahead of the February 2026 elections and sporadic unrest are adding to the cautious tone. On the positive side, Bangladesh has now reached 20 HKC approved yards, with more facilities working through the certification process and ongoing worker training through the GMS Sustainable Ship and Offshore Recycling Program. India The Alang recycling market stayed quiet. Few new deals were reported as Indian recyclers faced a sharp currency move. The Rupee fell to around Rs 89.6 per USD, bringing it close to the Rs 90 level that undermines confidence in future pricing. Steel plate prices improved slightly to approximately USD 398 per ton but remain below the USD 400 threshold. Smaller or less preferred ships are still priced under USD 400 per LDT even though nominal demo indications stand near USD 380 for bulk carriers, USD 400 for tankers, and USD 410 for container ships. With limited tonnage, weaker currency, and competition from lower-cost imported steel, Alang's yards are under pressure, and India's long-standing advantage as the main HKC compliant destination is beginning to narrow as Bangladesh and Pakistan add more approved yards. Pakistan Pakistan delivered the week's most encouraging structural development. Gadani's first HKC compliant recycling yard is expected to receive formal approval shortly, with two or three additional yards targeted over the next few months and further upgrades planned into mid 2026. This represents a significant step in bringing Pakistan fully into the compliant recycling landscape. In the short term, however, trading conditions remain subdued. Domestic steel plate prices fell by USD 11 to around USD 586 per ton, still the highest level in the region but weighed down by cheaper product imported from Iran. The Pakistani Rupee firmed slightly to about PKR 282.6 per USD, yet this was not enough to lift sentiment. For the third consecutive week, there were no meaningful fresh market arrivals, and demo indications remain around USD 400 per LDT for bulkers, USD 420 for tankers and USD 430 for containers. Turkey The Aliaga market was steady but very quiet. Prices held in the USD 260 to 270 per LDT range for bulk and tanker units and close to USD 280 for container vessels. The Turkish Lira weakened further, moving beyond TRY 42.4 per USD. Steel plate prices and demand were largely unchanged, leaving local yards operating in a constrained, high cost environment with little new tonnage to work on. Market Sentiment and Outlook Across South Asia and Turkey, ship recyclers are facing the combined weight of weaker currencies, softer or stagnant steel values, and a limited flow of recycling candidates. At the same time, HKC progress in Bangladesh and the first approvals in Pakistan are building a stronger foundation for compliant and sustainable ship recycling in the years ahead. As 2026 approaches, attention is turning to how the industry will manage the growing pool of aging dark fleet ships and 30 year old vessels once freight markets ease and demolition activity finally starts to pick up. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.
In this new episode of Inside the Markets from GMS Podcasts, host Jamie Dalzell is joined in Athens by Ilias Stasinos of GMS Greece to break down the latest trends in the ship recycling market as 2025 comes to a close. Together, they look at how global freight rates, weaker currencies in the subcontinent, and softer scrap steel prices are shaping ship recycling decisions for Greek owners and recyclers in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Turkey. Despite geopolitical risk, currency pressure, and uneven local steel markets, most Greek shipowners remain in trading mode, keeping even late twenties vessels in service while they wait for clearer price signals. Jamie and Ilias discuss why HKC compliant yards in India and Bangladesh still dominate decisions for listed and reputation sensitive owners, what is holding Pakistan back despite competitive indications, and how Turkey is maintaining its niche role for EU flagged tonnage. This episode offers concise, real time intelligence for anyone following ship recycling, green recycling, dry bulk, and demolition markets, with a particular focus on the role of currencies, compliance, and sentiment in setting the next move. Key Highlights Current ship recycling prices and buyer sentiment in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Turkey Why Greek owners are still trading instead of recycling, even with older Panamax bulkers How currency depreciation across the subcontinent is squeezing recyclers and shaping bids The importance of HKC certified and compliant ship recycling yards for listed and blue chip owners Pakistan's recent steel price correction, sub USD 600 local levels and the wait for its first HKC approved yard Turkey's role as a niche destination for EU flag tonnage amid a weakening lira and limited capacity Which vessel types are closest to the economic edge and most likely to be recycled if freight softens Why currencies are now driving market sentiment as much as scrap prices and freight rates Stay tuned to GMS Podcasts for more episodes of Inside the Markets covering ship recycling trends, trading flows and maritime market intelligence from key recycling and shipping hubs worldwide. Subscribe to the GMS Podcasts and follow GMS on LinkedIn for future updates and discussions.
In this 2025 Week 46 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, host Grace and co-host Ryan review global ship recycling markets as 2025 enters its final stretch. Falling steel prices, a firm U.S. Dollar, and limited vessel supply kept sentiment weak across South Asia. Global Market Overview Market volatility persisted through mid-November. The Baltic Dry Index continued to rise across all sub-sectors, while oil futures slipped to around USD 59.50 per barrel following a Ukrainian drone strike on Russia's Novorossiysk refinery. The U.S. Dollar strengthened further, reducing recyclers' purchasing power, while steel-plate prices in key destinations declined. Transactions closed mostly in the low USD 400s per LDT, with smaller or less-preferred units moving in the high USD 300s. Bangladesh Activity improved slightly as seven vessels totaling about 66,000 LDT reached Chattogram, including a large 21 K LDT bulk carrier. Despite this influx, overall sentiment remains fragile. Political tension ahead of the February 2026 elections, high tariffs near 30 percent, and a weaker Taka (BDT 122.35 per USD) continue to challenge local recyclers. Steel-plate prices dropped another USD 1 per ton, signaling persistent caution in the market. India The Alang recycling market stayed quiet but stable. India's strong HKC-compliant yard base provides structure, yet demand remains limited. Smaller dry units are only just touching USD 400 per LDT. The Rupee eased to Rs 88.70 per USD, while steel-plate prices gained about USD 4 per ton, offering a modest boost. Industry participants expect 2026 to mirror 2025's challenges unless global fundamentals improve. Pakistan After a brief recovery earlier in the quarter, Gadani activity slowed again. No new vessels arrived, and the country still awaits its first HKC-approved yard. Steel-plate prices fell USD 13 per ton to below USD 600, and the PKR weakened to 282.80 per USD. Ongoing inflation and the inflow of cheaper Iranian steel continue to pressure local recyclers and reduce competitiveness. Turkey The Aliaga market remained steady with prices in the USD 260 to 280 per LDT range. The Turkish Lira slipped beyond TRY 42.30 per USD, maintaining difficult trading conditions. Despite weak fundamentals, yards are working to sustain operations and meet regional recycling demand. Market Sentiment Across South Asia, recyclers face a combination of currency weakness, volatile commodity prices, and cautious end-users. As 2025 draws to a close, attention turns to 2026 for potential stabilization and renewed tonnage flow. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.
In this Week 45 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, global ship recycling markets remain subdued as weak fundamentals, falling steel prices, and currency volatility continue to pressure recyclers across South Asia. From Bangladesh and India to Pakistan and Turkey, sentiment stays fragile while inflation, sanctions, and lack of supply define the tone. Global Market Overview Markets limped through early November as macro pressures persisted. The Baltic Dry Index gained about 7% for the week, with Capes up 3.1%, Panamaxes 0.9%, and smaller segments rising 0.5%. Oil slipped again, closing just above USD 60 per barrel, while renewed U.S. sanctions and weaker global demand continue to cloud forecasts. Inflation in key recycling nations remained uneven: Pakistan saw renewed price pressure, Turkey and Bangladesh stayed unstable, and India's figures remain pending. Bangladesh Chattogram stayed on top in name but not in action, with no viable tonnage arrivals and local buyers offering above-market rates just to keep yards active. The Taka depreciated further to BDT 121.93 per USD, and domestic steel plate prices collapsed, ending the week with no trading reported. Inflation hovered at 8.17%, while political and economic uncertainty weigh heavily heading into 2026. India Alang continues to show resilience despite ongoing price weakness. Steel plate levels fell to USD 388.95 per ton, while the INR slipped to 88.67 per USD. Despite those declines, two mini-VLCCs arrived this week, showing India's growing dominance as an HKC-compliant recycling destination. Pakistan Gadani's market remains under heavy strain, with offers below USD 400 per LDT as cheap Iranian steel imports flood the market. Local steel prices held around USD 614 per ton, but the PKR weakened to 282.5 per USD, and inflation jumped to 6.2%. Still no HKC-approved yards, leaving Gadani struggling for competitiveness. Turkey Aliaga stayed mostly silent this week. The Lira plunged nearly 40 basis points to TRY 42.23 per USD, while local recyclers tried to lift prices slightly to attract tonnage, with little success so far. Market Sentiment With global inflation, currency devaluation, low supply, and soft steel fundamentals, the world's ship recycling sector continues to drift through uncharted waters. Optimism now shifts to 2026 as recyclers await a long-overdue "Trading Day." For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.
In this new episode from GMS Podcasts, host Jamie Dalzell is joined by Simos Dimitriou, Head of the GMS Dubai Office, to discuss how global economic pressures, shifting currencies, and fluctuating steel prices are shaping the ship recycling markets across the subcontinent. As oil prices slide and OPEC+ announces supply cutbacks, recyclers in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan face a stultifying market with tight supply and hesitant owners. From currency challenges and HKC yard compliance to creative deal structures in Dubai, this conversation offers real-time intelligence on how the region is adapting as 2025 closes. Key Highlights: Current ship recycling prices and sentiment in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan How currency volatility and Iranian steel imports are reshaping price competition India's reliability through HKC-certified yards and compliance leadership The slow pace in Bangladesh and pre-election uncertainty Pakistan's pricing correction and operational constraints Dubai's evolving role as a hub for structured and leaseback recycling deals Forecast for early 2026 and expected tonnage flow Despite the slowdown, disciplined owners and compliant yards continue to anchor confidence in the region's green ship recycling ecosystem.
In this Week 44 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, the global ship recycling industry closes October on a haunting note as weak fundamentals, volatile currencies, and scarce tonnage continue to shadow the sub-continent markets. From India and Bangladesh to Pakistan and Turkey, sentiment stays fragile while inflation trends, oil movements, and new HKC developments keep recyclers on edge. Global Market Overview October ended with more tricks than treats. The Baltic Dry Index slipped 1.3 percent week-on-week and nearly 8 percent for the month, marking its first monthly drop since April. Oil eased almost 1 percent to around USD 60.67 per barrel as OPEC+ announced fresh Q1 2026 cutbacks. A temporary U.S.–China trade truce brought brief relief, but volatility and policy uncertainty persist. Limited vessel supply kept yards mostly idle, with buyers hesitant to commit amid falling plate prices and a widening two-tier market for sanctioned ships. Bangladesh Chattogram showed faint sparks as a few hungry recyclers chased prompt deals, but domestic steel demand failed to ignite. Local plate levels slipped USD 3 to USD 529.50 per ton, and the taka weakened to BDT 122.37 per USD. HKC certifications continue to climb, with 21 yards expected to be approved by year-end, a bright spot in an otherwise subdued market. India Alang faced another quiet stretch as the rupee dropped 1.25 percent to INR 88.70. Steel prices ended flat, while discounted sanctioned vessels pushed legitimate bids lower, unsettling buyers and widening the pricing gap. Inflation remains low at 1.54 percent, hinting at potential relief through cheaper financing if confidence returns. Pakistan Gadani recyclers endured renewed “imports ire.” Cheap Iranian steel and a lack of HKC-compliant yards kept activity muted despite plate values roughly USD 230 above India's. The PKR closed at 283.17 per USD as margins tightened and sentiment weakened. Turkey Aliaga continued to face a supply pinch. Local recyclers raised offers slightly to attract owners, but the lira slid to TRY 42.06 and inflation rose above 33 percent. With few vessels arriving, operational pressure remains heavy. Market Sentiment As we sail into November, recyclers confront familiar headwinds: weak demand, currency stress, HKC uncertainty, and a vanishing pipeline of ships. Whether markets rebound or remain haunted will define the rest of 2025. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.
India's ship recycling market remains a cornerstone of global green recycling, combining scale, compliance, and experience. In this episode of Inside the Markets from GMS Podcasts, Jamie Dalzell speaks with Kiran Thorat, Head of GMS India Office, about the current sentiment in Alang, market pricing trends, and how India continues to lead through discipline and compliance. As South Asia experiences slower activity and price corrections, Indian recyclers are showing remarkable patience and readiness. With over 110 Hong Kong Convention–compliant yards, India remains the preferred destination for safe and transparent ship recycling. Kiran discusses how the industry is maintaining full operational capability, managing staff and infrastructure, and preparing for a modest recovery heading into year-end 2025. Key Highlights: • Current pricing correction and sentiment across Alang • How Indian yards maintain full staff and HKC compliance during slow phases • Challenges in negotiations between shipowners and end buyers • India's continued global leadership with over 110 HKC-certified yards • Outlook for Q4 2025 and early signs of recovery post-Diwali • Kiran Thorat's message to the global ship recycling community India's steady, compliance-driven approach continues to anchor confidence in global ship recycling. With disciplined operators, transparent processes, and a focus on safety, Alang remains at the forefront of responsible ship dismantling and green steel recovery. Follow GMS Podcasts for market intelligence and regional updates from our country heads in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Subscribe to the GMS Podcasts and follow GMS on LinkedIn for future updates and discussions.
In this Week 43 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, we review another subdued week in the global ship recycling markets as currencies fluctuated, steel plate prices softened, and sentiment across India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Turkey remained weak. Global Market Overview Markets slowed across the board as the Baltic Dry Index slipped about 3.2% to its lowest level since early October. Oil prices found mild traction, firming to USD 62.14 per barrel, up roughly 1% on expectations of a possible China–U.S. trade deal. Inflation in the United States rose to 3%, while sanctions and tariff pressures added further uncertainty. Recycling prices across the Sub-continent continued to fall, with levels below USD 400 per LDT now widely discussed. Supply of tonnage remained extremely limited, leaving yards mostly idle despite steady freight markets. Bangladesh Chattogram showed sporadic activity with a few larger LDT units drawing attention, including LNG carriers PUTERI NILAM and PUTERI DELIMA sold en bloc on private terms, and bulker MONICA P (7,779 LDT) sold at USD 380 per LT LDT “as is” Belawan. The Taka weakened to BDT 122.35, while local steel plate slipped another USD 3 per ton. Elections scheduled for February 2026 continue to shape local sentiment. India Alang endured another quiet week as Diwali holidays passed with little recovery. Steel plate prices remained near USD 389 per ton, and the rupee closed at INR 87.54. More than 100 HKC-certified yards remain empty, as prices for clean tonnage fall below USD 400 per LDT and the arrival of shadow-fleet vessels further depresses sentiment. Pakistan After recent optimism, Gadani slowed again due to an influx of cheap Iranian scrap steel. Local recyclers hesitated to offer on limited tonnage as plate prices held near USD 614 per ton. The rupee weakened to PKR 283.50 per USD. Larger dry units remain preferred, while smaller vessels are avoided amid certification delays. Turkey Little movement was recorded in Aliaga as the Lira slipped to TRY 42.08 per USD and local steel values remained largely unchanged. Offers stayed within USD 250–270 per LDT as sentiment stayed weak. Market Sentiment With October ending, global freight remains firm and oil prices higher, but the recycling sector continues to face record-low supply, fading prices, and growing uncertainty. For full details, vessel rankings, and port positions, download the GMS Weekly on our website or mobile app. Follow GMS on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.
Japan's ship recycling market continues to demonstrate stability and foresight amid a softer global environment. In this episode of Inside the Markets from GMS Podcasts, Jamie Dalzell, Head of GMS Singapore Office , speaks with Amit Malhotra, Head of GMS Japan Office, about how Japanese shipowners are adapting to new compliance standards under the Hong Kong Convention and preparing for long-term sustainability. With steel prices easing to the high USD 300s and limited recycling activity across the subcontinent, Japan remains focused on responsible recycling, IHM maintenance, and the gradual adoption of the GMSSustainable Ship and Offshore Recycling Program (SSORP). Key Highlights: Current market pricing and activity across Japan and South Asia Japanese owners' disciplined approach to recycling and compliance The growing role of SSORP in IHM and sustainable ship management Outlook for steam turbine LNG carrier recycling in 2025–2026 How GMS supports owners with structured and compliant recycling strategies Japan's calm and deliberate market strategy offers valuable insight into how long-term vision and technical integrity continue to guide responsible ship recycling. Follow GMS Podcasts for market intelligence and regional updates from our country heads in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Subscribe to the GMS Podcasts and follow GMS on LinkedIn for future updates and discussions.
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