The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has become the world’s largest classification society by gross tonnage of fleet in service, moving ahead of DNV, according to Lloyd’s List’s annual review.
Behind ABS and DNV, Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) retained its place in the top three based on total tonnage for fleets above 500 GT, including vessels under temporary class.
The sector remains highly competitive. Lloyd’s Register ranked fourth, followed by China Classification Society (CCS) and Bureau Veritas. The top ten also included Korean Register, RINA, Indian Register of Shipping, and Polski Rejestr Statkow. The distribution by tonnage and vessel numbers highlights strengthening positions for Asian class societies and continued demand for the services of international registries.
Market observers note that the tonnage split reflects both rising newbuilding activity and ongoing renewal of existing fleets, while the industry remains cautious due to shipping’s cyclical nature and fluctuations in the shipbuilding market.
