The Global Seafarers Union of India (GSUI) has expressed serious concerns over a recent directive from the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping). Issued as Order No. 08 of 2025, it bans certain foreign maritime administrations and their affiliates from providing or promoting maritime training in India without prior approval. Effective immediately, the directive threatens legal action and blacklisting for unauthorized training activities.
GSUI highlighted that this order could adversely affect Indian seafarers, many of whom have earned their Certificates of Competency (CoCs) and Certificates of Proficiency (CoPs) through foreign-affiliated institutions operating within India. The timing of the order is particularly troubling, as it follows a Bombay High Court stay on Circular 31 of 2025, which previously restricted the use of foreign-issued CoCs.
In response to the new directive, GSUI has demanded clarity regarding the status of those already trained under foreign systems. They are seeking a transition period for current students and the establishment of transparent criteria for foreign training providers. The union has called for improved communication with the seafaring community to alleviate misinformation and promote constructive dialogue involving seafarers’ unions and training institutes in policy-making.
Related posts:
India Bans Unauthorized Foreign Maritime Training and Tightens Seafarer Certification Standards
India’s New Regulations for P&I Insurance Certificate Verification at Ports
India’s Maritime Sector Boosted by DGS and C-DAC Collaboration for Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity
DG Shipping and GMU to Enhance India’s Maritime Law and Governance
