Summary
The number of abandoned oil tankers and other commercial ships has increased significantly worldwide. Many of these ships are part of "shadow fleets," used to bypass international sanctions, creating problems for crews who can be left without pay and basic supplies.
Key Facts
- Abandoned oil tankers and ships have increased in number over the past year.
- A senior deck officer described a lack of essential supplies on an abandoned ship outside China's waters.
- The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) reported the abandonment and helped crew members get paid and receive supplies.
- Many ships are part of "shadow fleets," often older and poorly maintained vessels with unclear ownership.
- Shadow fleets try to conceal their activities to help countries like Russia and Iran export oil despite sanctions.
- Flags of convenience (FOCs) allow ships to register in countries with fewer regulations, such as Panama and Liberia.
- In 2025, FOC vessels accounted for 82% of abandoned ships.
- Gambia, which previously had no registered oil tankers, increased to hosting 35 such vessels by March last year.
