The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji says the country is continuing to produce enough qualified seafarers to meet the needs of the domestic shipping industry, despite concerns from some operators about recruitment difficulties.
In a statement, MSAF clarified that while some local shipping companies are struggling to recruit experienced senior officers, the issue is not due to a shortage of certified Fijian seafarers.
“The primary challenge reported by operators is not an absolute shortage of qualified personnel, but rather the immediate unavailability of experienced senior officers, such as senior masters and marine engineers with extensive command or senior operational experience,” said MSAF.
The authority says national certification records show Fiji continues to produce sufficient numbers of qualified personnel to support domestic maritime operations.
However, it says becoming a senior master or chief engineer takes years of practical sea service, mentorship and operational experience, making these positions more difficult to fill.
MSAF says recruitment challenges are also being driven by market conditions, with many experienced officers attracted by better salaries, career opportunities and working conditions offered overseas.
“Recruitment challenges are heavily influenced by market factors, including employee preferences regarding working environments, health and welfare benefits, and the highly competitive remuneration packages offered both locally and abroad.”
The authority also confirmed it has received preliminary enquiries from some shipping operators about employing foreign seafarers.
However, it says any such requests will be carefully assessed to ensure they comply with Fiji’s maritime laws, employment policies and government approval processes.
“MSAF’s core priority remains to promote employment opportunities for qualified Fijian seafarers while ensuring vessels operate safely and in full compliance with international safety standards.”
To strengthen the sector over the long term, MSAF says it is working with maritime training institutions, industry stakeholders and international partners to expand local training opportunities.
Current initiatives include reviewing Fiji’s STCW regulatory framework, upgrading maritime training programmes to senior certification levels, and improving infrastructure and equipment at national maritime training institutes.
The authority says it remains committed to building a highly skilled local maritime workforce capable of meeting the country’s future shipping needs.
