Global Shipping Industry Faces Major Crisis: Seafarer Shortages

The shipping industry, a cornerstone of global trade, is grappling with a severe shortage of seafarers. This issue has led to a surge in fake resumes, increased maritime accidents, elevated freight rates, and significant operational challenges. With over 80% of global trade volume carried by sea, according to the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), addressing this crisis is critical for global supply chain stability.

The Extent of the Seafarer Shortage

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) projects a shortfall of 90,000 trained seafarers by 2026. This gap is exacerbated by the rapid increase in global shipping vessels, which has outpaced the growth of skilled maritime professionals.

According to Drewry, an independent maritime research consultancy, the supply-demand imbalance is particularly acute among senior officers and engineers. “Companies are often forced to hire seafarers with less experience than they would ideally require,” noted Rhett Harris, a senior manning analyst at Drewry.

Geopolitical Factors Intensify the Crisis

Geopolitical conflicts have further strained the seafarer labor pool. Before the Russia-Ukraine war, seafarers from these two nations comprised nearly 15% of the global maritime workforce. The conflict has significantly reduced the availability of skilled seafarers from both countries, intensifying the global shortage.

Additionally, the Red Sea remains a high-risk area due to attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi militant group. This danger has made the profession less appealing, especially to younger generations seeking safer career options.

Declining Interest Among Younger Generations

Seafaring, once considered a lucrative career, is now struggling to attract new talent. Younger generations prioritize work-life balance and connectivity, finding the long months at sea and limited internet access less appealing.

“In the past, high salaries were enough to draw interest, but today’s youth value quality of life and career stability,” said Daejin Lee, Global Head of Research at FertiStream. As a result, companies are attempting to modernize onboard conditions by introducing entertainment facilities, gym equipment, and shorter voyage durations of two to four months.

Operational Risks: Fake Resumes and Fatigue

The shortage has also led to a troubling rise in unqualified seafarers entering the workforce through falsified resumes. “There’s a significant increase in candidates fabricating their maritime experience,” said Henrik Jensen, CEO of Danica Crewing Specialists Group. Such practices not only jeopardize safety but also erode the trust between employers and employees.

Fatigue among existing seafarers is another critical issue. A 2024 study by the World Maritime University found that 93% of surveyed seafarers identified fatigue as the most pressing safety concern on board. Over 78% reported not having a single full day off during their contract periods, which often extend for months.

Implications for Maritime Safety

The combination of inexperience, prolonged working hours, and insufficient crew has increased the risk of accidents and reduced operational efficiency. “The safety of ships and crews is compromised when understaffed or staffed with inexperienced personnel,” warned Subhangshu Dutt, Executive Director of Om Maritime.

Economic Impact of the Seafarer Shortage

The shortage has driven up wages as companies compete for talent, significantly increasing operating costs. Since seafarers’ wages constitute a substantial portion of a ship’s expenses, this trend is expected to keep freight rates elevated. These higher freight costs contribute to inflationary pressures globally.

ICS emphasizes the need for proactive measures, stating, “Policymakers must develop national strategies to address the seafarer shortage. Recruiting a diverse workforce is essential to ensure the industry's long-term viability.”

Looking Ahead

Experts agree that the seafarer shortage will persist in the coming years, presenting one of the most significant challenges for the maritime industry. Sustainable solutions, including better recruitment practices, improved working conditions, and policy interventions, are urgently needed to bridge the gap and maintain the resilience of global trade.