# Global maritime piracy trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-maritime-piracy-trends
> Updated: 2026-10-20T02:39:35.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2.

Global maritime piracy and armed robbery incidents reached their lowest levels in approximately 30 years during the first nine months of 2026. Reports indicate that 51 incidents were recorded, which is a significant decrease from the 116 incidents reported during the same period in 2025.

Authorities attribute the decline to intensified maritime controls and successful law enforcement operations, such as arrests made by Indonesian authorities. However, the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) noted a resurgence in Somali piracy, which was responsible for eight vessel hijackings and 94% of all crew members taken hostage globally during this period. While most hijacked vessels have been released, authorities in Puntland reported fatalities and injuries during the hijacking of the tanker Honour 25 in April 2026.

In addition to traditional piracy, there are increasing military-related threats to commercial shipping in the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Black Sea, where drone attacks and geopolitical conflicts persist. Experts emphasize that despite the overall downward trend, continued vigilance and adherence to Best Management Practices remain necessary to protect seafarers and trade routes.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-20: Maritime piracy hits lowest levels since 1992 despite Somali resurgence

Global maritime piracy incidents fell to their lowest levels since 1992 in early 2026, though Somali piracy activity has risen, accounting for 94% of all crew members taken hostage globally.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/maritime-piracy-hits-lowest-levels-since-1992-despite-somali-resurgence

### 2026-10-16: International Chamber of Commerce reports 30-year low in global piracy

The International Chamber of Commerce reports that global maritime piracy has hit a 30-year low, with only 51 attacks recorded in the first nine months of the year, down by more than half from last year.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/international-chamber-of-commerce-reports-30-year-low-in-global-piracy

---
Cite as: Global maritime piracy trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-maritime-piracy-trends
