The Seafarer Workforce Report 2026, released by BIMCO and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), predicts a significant shortfall of STCW certified officers, estimating a need for an additional 113,735 officers by 2030 to support the global merchant fleet. Currently, 2.57 million seafarers operate 85,148 merchant ships worldwide. By 2026, the report anticipates a shortage of 39,100 certified officers, alongside a surplus of 56,890 ratings.
To address future demands, the maritime sector will require an annual influx of 22,747 officers and 8,475 ratings until 2030, reflecting a 2.0% and 0.5% increase, respectively. The report emphasizes the importance of recruitment, training, and retention of seafarers to ensure industry readiness. Since the last report in 2021, demand for STCW certified seafarers has surged by 35%, driven by the expansion of the global fleet and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
BIMCO Secretary General David Loosley highlights the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to develop effective recruitment and employment strategies. The report stresses promoting maritime careers and closely monitoring recruitment and retention to address the evolving workforce needs in the industry.
