TBA GroupPort of StocktonCimbriaTelestackViganVan Aalst
  • Port of Stockton
  • Van Aalst
  • Bühler GmbH
  • Sailors Society
  • Telestack
  • Vigan

Agreement on minimum wage for seafarers

Agreement on minimum wage for seafarers

(Posted on 27/11/18)

The social partners, namely the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), have convened in Geneva at the Joint Maritime Commission Subcommittee on Seafarers Wages to review the ILO Minimum Wage for an Able Seafarer (AB) provided for in Code B of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (as amended).

The decision, following two days of negotiations, was to update the minimum wage for an able seafarer by 27 USD over the next 3 years. The wages will provide an overall increase of 4.5% on the current rate of 614 USD, with an increase of 4 USD as of 1 July 2019, followed by an increase of 7 USD as of 1 January 2020 and a final increase of 16 USD as of 1 January 2021.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the meeting had previously been re-scheduled from June 2018 and the social partners, with the support of the ILO Office, were presented with the current consumer prices changes indices and the impact of fluctuation of the USD in the countries agreed to represent the basis for a formula for the calculation of the recommended minimum wage for an AB.

It was noted that during the period taken into account for the calculation the 614 USD, which is the current ILO minimum wage rate for an able seafarer, was below the purchasing power stated in the ILO report prepared for consideration at the meeting.

The Social partners provided reasoned arguments and economic forecasts to support their respective positions, including the volatility of the shipping industry, and the necessity to recognize the seafarers’ commitment and the need to agree fair and sustainable conditions.

“This was a difficult negotiation with two very different assessments about what the future holds for shipping and seafarers”, admitted Mark Dickinson, the Seafarers’ Group spokesperson. “We started slowly but gained momentum as the parties exchanged opinions and provided arguments to support their positions. There was strong opposition from the shipowners side for a significant increase. However, I am pleased that at the end pragmatism and common sense prevailed and the social partners worked their way forward to recognise the fundamental role seafarers play within the industry.

“The principles of social dialogue, which is the basis of a more efficient, fair and progressive industry, were once again demonstrated by the unity of the maritime industry in securing an outcome which was acceptable by all parties.” He added, “It is an example the social partners should be pleased with.”

“We will continue to work together to find ways to ensure that the ILO formula used as the basis for these negotiations is fair and reflects the reality for seafarers, but the impact of this session of the JMC negotiation on the global seafaring community is undoubtedly a good and equitable result.”

Max Johns, the Shipowners’ Group spokesperson explained that “Following active discussions on the current difficult challenges facing our industry, and the importance of preserving future employment for seafarers, I am very pleased to advise that we were able to work together to come to an acceptable result for both parties”.            

Latest News

Groke brings new situation awareness expertise to One Sea

(Posted on 24/03/23)

One Sea has welcomeed Finnish start-up Groke Technologies as its new member, bringing additional expertise... Read more


ClassNK releases FAQs on EU-ETS for shipping

(Posted on 24/03/23)

ClassNK has released “FAQs on the EU-ETS for Shipping”, an overview and necessary preparation... Read more


New AXSMarine tool helps users visualize CO2 emissions and CII

(Posted on 20/03/23)

AXSMarine, a pioneer and market leader in the provision of advanced solutions for shipping professionals... Read more


Shipzero advances the decarbonization of logistics

(Posted on 20/03/23)

Shipzero is enabling transport and logistics companies to create transparency about their emissions... Read more


Isle of Man Ship Registry joins INTERCARGO

(Posted on 07/03/23)

The Isle of Man Ship Registry (IOMSR) has become an associate member of The International Association... Read more


More investment into crews’ health and nutrition says MCTC

(Posted on 07/03/23)

The wellbeing of crew members is becoming more important to shipping companies says leading catering... Read more


Strong demand and diversified vessel portfolio fuels strong Algoma performance

(Posted on 28/02/23)

Canada based Algoma Central Corporation has reported its results for the year ended 31 December, 2022... Read more


Ukrainian seafarers back, but many have suffered trauma

(Posted on 24/02/23)

Ukrainian seafarers have largely returned to international shipping thereby restoring balance in crew... Read more


Round Table prioritises seafarers at first in-person meeting since COVID

(Posted on 24/02/23)

The Chairs of the Round Table of International Shipping Associations met in Athens last week to renew... Read more


AXSMarine invests in Nextvoyage

(Posted on 21/02/23)

AXSMarine, a leading provider of SaaS shipping software and data for decision making in the chartering... Read more


Port of South LouisianaTOC Europe 2023Bühler GmbHSailors SocietyThe Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology
  • Port of South Louisiana
  • TOC Europe 2023

Subscribe to our newsletter

Keep up to date with the latest global news in bulk cargo handling and shipping