Shadow Fleet

ITF E-Circular no. 091/S/SS/2026

Our Ref: S/SS/FB/ack

10 April 2026

Dear Friends and Comrades,

Shadow Fleet

You will be aware of the growing problem of shadow fleet operations in the global shipping industry.

The ships that make up the shadow fleet represent an increasing threat to the stability and safety of maritime operations worldwide. Most importantly they can make the seafarers who sail in them vulnerable to exploitation.

CHIRP, which is an independent and confidential reporting system for seafarers, has produced a short guide on the shadow fleet. Please see the attached information in English, Bahasa, and Tagalog.

Whilst it will not be possible for seafarers to verify all the safety checks that are outlined in the attached Guide, some ITF affiliates and inspectors may still find the information useful.

Your sincerely,

Fabrizio Barcellona ITF Seafarers & Inland Navigation Coordinator

Shadow-Fleet-insight-English.pdf

Download PDF • 6.55MB

Shadow-Fleet-insight-Tagalog.pdf

Download PDF • 6.59MB

Shadow-Fleet-insight-Bahasa.pdf

Download PDF • 6.58MB