GSUI raises concerns over DG Shipping’s ban on foreign maritime training

The Global Seafarers Union of India (GSUI) has voiced strong concerns over a recent directive from the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), which prohibits certain foreign maritime administrations and their affiliates from offering or promoting maritime training in India without prior written approval.

Issued on August 1 as Order No. 08 of 2025, the directive calls for an immediate suspension of such unauthorized training activities and warns that violations could lead to blacklisting and legal action under the Merchant Shipping Act and the Information Technology Act.

In response, GSUI warned that the order could significantly impact Indian seafarers, many of whom have obtained their Certificates of Competency (CoCs) and Certificates of Proficiency (CoPs) through foreign-affiliated institutions operating in the country.

The directive comes just days after the Bombay High Court granted a stay on Circular 31 of 2025, which had attempted to bar Indian seafarers from sailing with foreign-issued CoCs unless approved by Indian authorities. GSUI has called the timing of this new order “troubling” and said it lacks procedural fairness.

In its official response, the union demanded immediate clarification from DG Shipping regarding the future of those already trained under foreign systems. It has also called for a defined transition period for students currently enrolled in such programs and the publication of transparent approval criteria for foreign training providers.

GSUI further urged the government to ensure open and consistent communication with the seafaring community to curb misinformation and panic. The union stressed the importance of involving seafarers’ unions and maritime training institutes in future policy decisions. The GSUI has reiterated its call for calm, policy transparency, and inclusive dialogue to protect the future of India’s seafaring workforce.